Project Pit, an innovative partnership platform uniting artists, brands, and organizations to deliver events that intersect entertainment with social impact, announced its honorees for the inaugural Maternal Health Summit at Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza on Saturday, Aug. 16.
This year’s honorees include Halle Bailey (Grammy-nominated artist and actress), who will receive the Halo Award for using her platform to raise awareness about maternal mental health, and Faith Evans (Grammy-winning artist and Founder of Ryder’s Room, Inc.), who will receive the Impact Award in recognition of her work providing resources to children and families with disabilities and diverse needs.
The Maternal Health Summit was created by Project Pit to raise awareness about the maternal health crisis in the United States, with a focus on the systemic disparities impacting women of color and underserved communities. The event brings together healthcare professionals, policymakers, doulas, midwives, advocates, and families for a day of dialogue, healing, education, and engagement. Attendees will gain tools, resources, and support to advocate for maternal and child health equity in their lives, communities, and institutions.
“This event is more than a gathering, it’s a call to action,” said Maryam Dorsey, the Creative Director of Project Pit. “Every mother and child deserves safe, respectful, and equitable care, and we’re excited to launch this summit to help push us toward making that a reality, especially for those facing racial and economic disparities. We’re also proud to honor Halle Bailey and Faith Evans for using their voices and platforms to shed light on the experiences of mothers and advocate for maternal and child wellness.”
The Maternal Health Summit will feature a full day of immersive and accessible programming for all ages from 10 AM to 3 PM. Activations include:
• R&B Yoga and Sound Bowl Session – An
interactive mind, body, and spirit experience
led by Black Mental Health Maternal Force,
where mothers can practice yoga and enjoy a
soothing soundscape alongside their children.
The session will also promote bonding, relax
ation, and both mental and physical well-being.
• Community Baby Shower – A community-
centered event hosted by It’s Bigger Than Us,
where the first 150 expecting mothers will
receive free essential items such as diapers,
baby clothing, and supplies. Local organiza
tions and health service providers will also be
on-site to share resources and offer support.
• Navigating Funding and Resources for
Mothers (Pre, During, and Post-Pregnancy) –
Hosted by the Black Girls Mental Health
Collective, this informative workshop will
guide mothers through available funding
opportunities, healthcare access, childcare
resources, and parenting and mental health
support programs.
• Doula Panel: The Advantages of Having a
Doula During Pregnancy – Presented by the
Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective,
this moderated fireside chat features experi
enced doulas discussing the benefits of doula
support. Panelists will share personal stories
and testimonials, explain how to find and
choose the right doula, and explore different
types of doula services, including birth and
postpartum doulas.
The summit will culminate with a celebratory honoree presentation recognizing Halle Bailey and Faith Evans for their leadership and advocacy in reshaping narratives around maternal and child wellness.
