Progressive Voices

This time on Code WACK! April Valentine knew that Black women were more likely to die from a pregnancy or child-related cause -- and tried to beat the odds with careful research, preparation and a supportive birthing team. So why did the 31-year-old die at an L.A.- area hospital while in labor with her baby girl? To find out, we spoke to April’s doula, Stanis Askew, who works with Frontline Doulas, a perinatal health program that connects Black families with Black doulas. While the incident remains under investigation, here is April’s tragic story told through the eyes of her doula.