Advocacy is the heartbeat of change in women’s health, especially when it comes to cardiovascular disease, which continues to be the leading cause of death for women. Given that February is both Heart Month and Black History Month, it’s even more important to raise awareness about the health disparities that minority women face when it comes to heart disease and to ensure that all women have access to the care and support they need.
Together, we can make lasting progress through advocacy, and WomenHeart provides several ways for you to get involved and make a difference in women’s heart health. Here’s how you can engage and amplify your impact during this crucial time of year:
1. Share Your Story
Personal stories drive real change. During Heart Month, we encourage you to share your experience with heart disease. By doing so, you contribute to raising awareness about the challenges that many women face, including Black women, who face higher rates of heart disease and delayed or inadequate care. Sharing your story can spark others to take charge of their health and be part of the conversation.
During Black History Month, the narratives of Black women are especially important. The Her Heart, Her History campaign highlights these stories, ensuring that Black women’s voices are heard in the fight against heart disease. Your participation helps underscore the importance of representation and advocacy in health care.
2. Volunteer with WomenHeart
Volunteering with WomenHeart allows you to actively participate in programs designed to raise awareness and support women living with heart disease. Women living with heart disease can take the path to become a Champion, while other allies can share resources and speak about heart health in their communities. Whether you’re involved in community outreach or helping to organize events, your volunteer efforts will empower women, including those who face health disparities.
It’s important to consider how your time can help elevate the voices of Black women in the conversation about heart health. Supporting initiatives that address these disparities can create systemic change.
3. Advocate for Policy Change
Advocacy can move mountains, especially when it comes to heart health. You can take action by joining WomenHeart’s advocacy efforts to push for policies that prioritize women’s heart health. Advocate for better care, more research, and greater equity in treatment.
Black History Month serves as a reminder that Black and minority women have historically been underrepresented in both medical research and clinical trials. By advocating for policies that address these disparities, you’re helping to create a more inclusive healthcare system that ensures all women have access to the same level of care.
4. Support the Her Heart, Her History Campaign
This month, WomenHeart’s Her Heart, Her History campaign is highlighting the essential contributions of Black women in the fight against heart disease. The campaign ties Heart Month together with Black History Month to raise awareness about the unique challenges that Black women face in managing heart health while underscoring the importance of honoring their legacy.
By supporting this initiative, you’re not just advocating for women’s health—you’re elevating the voices and stories of those whose experiences have been marginalized for too long. The Her Heart, Her History campaign is a vital part of ensuring that all women’s experiences are recognized and that the heart health needs of minority women are met. Visit Her Heart, Her History to learn more and show your support.
5. Donate to Support Advocacy and Education
Your donations are crucial in enabling WomenHeart to continue advocating for heart health and providing support and educational resources. Contributions help fund programs, support research, and increase awareness about heart disease prevention.
Your gift can help fund research and programs that focus on preventing heart disease. Every donation helps ensure that women’s health is a priority.
Why Advocacy Matters for Heart Health
Heart health advocacy shapes the future for all women, but it’s especially vital for Black women, who experience disproportionate rates of heart disease. In recognition of both Heart Month and Black History Month, we must amplify our efforts to address these disparities and ensure that all women receive the care and support they deserve. Advocacy is not just about raising awareness—it’s about driving systemic change, making healthcare more equitable, and ensuring that every woman’s voice is heard in the fight for better heart health.
Your involvement in these advocacy efforts can have a profound impact, not just on individuals, but on healthcare systems and policy. Together, we can create a future where all women, regardless of their background or race, have the tools, support, and education to live heart-healthy lives.
