Infant Mortality Awareness

Governor Tim Walz proclaimed the week of September 15-21, 2024 as: Infant Mortality Awareness Week.

Proclamation

WHEREAS: The infant mortality rate is an important measure of the health and well-being of a population; and

WHEREAS:  In 2022, Minnesota’s overall infant mortality rate was lower than the national average at 4.5 deaths per 1,000 live births. On average, 326 infants die in Minnesota every year; and

WHEREAS: All babies born in Minnesota deserve a healthy start and opportunities to survive, thrive, and develop to their fullest potential; and

WHEREAS:  Disparities in pre- and post-natal care and community support — especially for Black and American Indian families — are evident, persistent, and a significant public health issue; and

WHEREAS: Infants born to American Indian and Black mothers have historically died at more than two times the rate of infants born to white mothers; and

WHEREAS: Infant mortality is a complex societal problem that requires a collaborative response from multiple sectors and disciplines to address conditions that negatively affect birth outcomes. Maternal health and well-being before, during, and after pregnancy, is impacted by housing and job security, the environment,  social support and community connections, and  access to health care; and

WHEREAS: Systemic racism and discrimination against Black, American Indian, and other people of color directly contribute to inequities in infant mortality; and

WHEREAS: The death of any infant  is one too many; and

WHEREAS: Infant Mortality Week provides an opportunity for individuals, organizations, government entities, health care facilities, community groups, and coalitions to promote awareness a about infant mortality.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, TIM WALZ, Governor of Minnesota, do hereby proclaim the week of September 15-21, 2024 as:

Infant Mortality Awareness Week in the State of Minnesota.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of Minnesota to be affixed at the State Capitol this 6th day of August.