Advancing BIPOC Health Equity: Talitha Cumi Missions Takes Bold Action

At Talitha Cumi Missions, we believe that health is not a privilege—it is a God-given right. And yet, for far too many Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC)—especially unhoused women and children—access to equitable healthcare and safe housing remains out of reach.

Rooted in both faith and justice, our organization is launching a powerful 36-month initiative to confront the racial disparities embedded in our healthcare and housing systems. Through community-led research, strategic partnerships, and spiritual empowerment, we are working to transform lived experience into policy change.

Why This Matters

In Greater New Orleans, Black women and children are:- More likely to experience homelessness due to systemic displacement- Less likely to receive adequate medical care, prenatal support, and mental health services- Routinely excluded from the decision-making tables where policies are made about their livesWe say: No more.

Our Approach

This initiative—“Daughter, Rise”—is not just about research. It’s about:- Listening deeply to the voices of those who have been marginalized- Equipping community leaders with tools to co-create data, solutions, and systems- Building coalitions to advocate for bold, evidence-based policies that advance racial and health equity in Louisiana and beyond.

What We’re Building

With support from national and local partners, Talitha Cumi Missions is:- Hosting community listening sessions and policy roundtables- Providing stipends and training to resident researchers and facilitators- Partnering with evaluators, faith leaders, and public health experts- Drafting policy blueprints rooted in lived experience and sacred worth

Our Faith, Our Fight

“Talitha Cumi” means “Daughter, arise.”

We believe God is calling daughters (and sons) across this city to rise from the ashes of inequity—to be heard, healed, and made whole. And we are rising with them.

Join us in this sacred work. Together, we can write a new policy story—one rooted in justice, dignity, and restoration.