This International Women’s Day, give to gain.

This International Women’s Day, the theme “Give to Gain” reminds us that investing in women’s health benefits everyone.

At the CO-CREATH Lab at the University of Ottawa, we are putting this principle into action through community-based participatory research (CPBR)  projects for health equity with and for Black communities. When we give time, resources, and trust to community-led research, we gain healthier families, stronger communities, and better science.

Here’s how we’re demonstrating #GiveToGain:

• Reducing HIV/AIDS among Black Canadian women: Working with Peer Equity Navigators (PENs) and community partners to co-develop research and solutions that address inequities.
• Supporting perinatal mental health for Black birthing people: Through our newly launched webinar series that creates space for learning, dialogue, and support.
• Advancing data governance and sovereignty: Conducting research to strengthen ethical partnerships and ensure Black Canadian communities have a voice in how their data is collected, used, and shared.

When organizations, institutions, and individuals invest in Black women’s health, the impact extends far beyond one community, it strengthens public health, research, and equity for all.

This International Women’s Day, give to gain.
Invest in research. Support community partnerships. Champion Black women’s health.