The Black Health Equity Initiative program at PPAZ was inspired by the Planned Parenthood Federation of America (PPFA) campaign to raise awareness of the disparities and racial stigmas faced by black people within the healthcare systems. Black Americans have a higher rate of unintended pregnancy and a higher rate of abortion than non-Hispanic whites and are three times more likely to die during childbirth. Black women are also 40% more likely to die from breast cancer. It is noted that high rates of abortions are related to poverty and lack of access to prevention services. With recent restrictions, bands, and political jargon around abortion access, it was made clear to me that the health of black people is at risk. PPFA is changing this organization one affiliate at a time. It is no longer enough to be black and invited to stand in the room, and we need a seat at the table to bring the changes we desire to fruition. This work to make intentional investments in equity and representation through artwork in our health centers was made possible through a generous grant.
The primary focus of Zybrena’s work is creating space for honest and healthy self-expression in Black American communities. An advocate for self-love and mental health, Zybrena began this journey of creating to remind herself of the value and necessity of showing up authentically in the world. Seeing mental health in minority communities continually impacted by societal marginalization, and its effects, she quickly resolved that the luxury of being fully secure in one’s own skin was one her community needed to be able to afford. “Reclaiming our main character energy means reclaiming our stories, and that is exactly what I aim to do.” Zybrena Fine Art is tackling this mission through creating oil paintings, prints and displays that feature and depict women from across the African Diaspora, experiencing healing, self-empowerment and renewal of purpose.
Follow Zybrena on Instagram @zybrena and visit her website www.Zybrena.com
Tags: mural, healthcenter, #blackhealthequity, art