A 31-year-old South Carolina midwife who championed Black maternal healthcare tragically died from childbirth complications after delivering her first child on Friday, Jan. 2. The loss is a stark reminder of the systemic issues impacting Black mothers in the United States.
Advocate and Expert Lost Too Soon
Dr. Janell Green Smith dedicated her career to improving outcomes for young Black mothers, partnering with Hive Impact Fund to provide education and support both before and after childbirth. She and Hive Impact worked tirelessly to reduce Black maternal mortality, a crisis disproportionately affecting this community.
Colleagues remember Dr. Smith as a deeply compassionate and unwavering advocate for all birthing people, particularly Black women who face significantly elevated risks during pregnancy and childbirth due to systemic racism and bias.
A Devastating Loss for the Midwifery Community
The American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) described Dr. Smith as a “respected midwife, scholar, and advocate whose life and work reflected a deep commitment to respectful, evidence-based, and equitable care.” Her death has been called “devastating” by the organization, a painful illustration of failures within the maternal care system.
“It’s the kind of loss that feels personal to anyone who’s worked beside her—or been helped by her,” ACNM stated.
The organization further emphasized that Dr. Smith’s death is “both heartbreaking and unacceptable,” underscoring the reality that Black women, regardless of their socioeconomic status or professional achievements, continue to face disproportionate risks during pregnancy and childbirth.
Commitment to Dismantling Disparities
ACNM has pledged to continue working to dismantle healthcare disparities among Black mothers, collaborating with Black midwives, clinicians, and communities to prevent future tragedies.
“We extend our deepest condolences to Dr. Smith’s family, loved ones, and the midwifery community,” the organization said. “We carry her legacy forward with urgency, humility, and resolve.”
Support for Dr. Smith’s Family
A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support Dr. Smith’s husband, Daiquan Smith, and their newborn baby, aiming to alleviate the financial burdens following her unexpected passing.
According to the campaign description, all funds raised will be used for funeral and memorial expenses, living costs, newborn essentials, and ongoing support for the family.
“Any contribution — no matter the size — will help provide stability, relief, and care during a time when the family needs it most. Please continue to keep the Smith Family lifted in prayer.”
