Rising deaths, extreme racial disparities, and state inaction endanger pregnant Floridians

Orlando, FL — [May 2026] — The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) is calling for urgent statewide action as Florida’s maternal mortality crisis continues to worsen, with Black women facing the highest risk of pregnancy‑related death. Despite escalating dangers, the state has failed to provide transparent oversight, timely reporting, or meaningful policy solutions to protect pregnant people.

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Reports of nonconsensual surgeries on pregnant women — including Black women in active labor — expose a dangerous crisis in patient rights

For immediate release April 17 by president@flnow.org

Orlando, FL — April 2026 — The Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW) is calling for urgent state and federal intervention following alarming reports that Florida hospitals have subjected pregnant women — including Black women — to nonconsensual Cesarean sections, in some cases using the courts to override a patient’s refusal while she was in active labor.

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“Florida NOW (FL NOW) joins communities across Florida in mourning the domestic violence death of Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer Bowen, a visionary leader, environmental justice advocate, and the first Black woman elected to the Coral Springs City Commission,” said Julie Kent, President of FL NOW. “Her sudden loss, which is being investigated as a homicide, leaves a profound void in the fight for equity, sustainability, and community‑centered governance.”

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