On Saturday, August 12, 2023, the San Diego County Black Infant Health Program (BIH), in collaboration with the San Diego Association of Black Social Workers (SDABSW), hosted an appreciation luncheon for BIH participants. Themed as a “Mothers’ TEA” (Mothers Teach, Empower, and Advocate for themselves, their children, their families, and their communities), the afternoon was dedicated to celebrating Black mothers (and fathers) and their parenthood journey.
The event was held at the DoubleTree Hotel in Hazard Center and featured photo opportunities, socializing and networking, opportunity drawings, and recognition of the BIH mothers. Keynote Speaker Maxine Amaru spoke of her life as a foster youth and how she used her experiences to motivate and advocate for herself to excel in her education despite various challenges. Ms. Amaru holds a total of five associate degrees and will graduate with a bachelor’s degree from San Diego State in December 2023. Her educational journey has been totally funded through scholarships, allowing her to be debt free in the process. She encouraged the audience to look for opportunities to get an education using scholarships, to advocate for their needs and those of their children/families, and to know that they can be successful in their life journey.
The afternoon ended with a tribute to the late DJ Casper, with many in attendance (including the babies) doing the Cha Cha slide!
