Jane Bancroft Robinson Foundation

Did you know that March is also Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month? Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States, with over 53,000 lives lost in 2024. "Colorectal cancer is the second deadliest cancer in the country," said Durado Brooks, M.D., then VP of Prevention and Early Detection at the American Cancer Society. "This disease is ravaging the Black community, and it is as important as ever that everyone has access to and is receiving the recommended screenings." Black communities are disproportionately affected by colorectal cancer, with individuals being 20% more likely to develop the disease and 40% more likely to die from it compared to other groups. These disparities are often linked to systemic barriers such as limited access to healthcare, economic challenges, and a lack of timely screening and diagnosis. This March, let’s work together to raise awareness, promote early screenings, and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to receive the care they need for early detection and prevention. #ColorectalCancerAwareness #HealthEquity #EarlyDetection #JBRF

Due to the intersection of gender- and race-based inequities, Black women face unique challenges. This often leads to them being overlooked in conversations, when in reality, we should be leaning in and listening to their lived experiences. At JBRF, we shift the focus of philanthropy to Black women’s needs and challenges which helps us address multiple layers of systemic barriers at once. In the words of Natasha Dupee, M.Ed., MPH, “When we solve problems for Black women, others thrive.” Watch the full video here: https://lnkd.in/eKvJ46Cr #EquityInAction #JBRF

This month, the JBRF team had the privilege of touring Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center, a vital healthcare facility serving the community. We were joined by Sharon L. Sellers, Assistant Director of Community Health and the Sibley Senior Association at Sibley Memorial Hospital; Elijah McDuffie, Program Manager at Johns Hopkins Medicine & Sibley Memorial Hospital; Nakeisha Neal Jones, Executive Director of Black Women Thriving East of the River; Dr. Anthony Coleman, DHA, CEO of Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center GW Health and Larissa Etwaroo Bako, Director of Public Engagement, Training, and Compliance for New Hospital & Health System Development at Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center, GW Health. The visit provided invaluable insight into the essential services available to residents and reinforced the urgency of equitable healthcare access, a cause at the core of JBRF’s mission. We remain committed to strengthening partnerships that ensure Black women, especially those East of the Anacostia River, receive the care and opportunities they deserve. There is still much to do, and we are dedicated to this work. Stay connected for more updates on our efforts. #HealthEquity #CommunityCare #JBRF #BlackWomenThriving #HealthcareForAll

Since honing in on our foundation’s focus, JBRF has been focused on addressing root causes and systemic inequities in cancer patient navigation, workforce development, and general wellbeing of Black women. We strive to develop well-informed solutions to challenges that disproportionately impact communities East of the River, where systemic racism exacerbates these disparities. Wards 7 and 8 East of the Anacostia River? have historically faced systemic challenges and continue to experience significant health disparities. Ward 8 has the highest cancer incidence (453 cases per 100,000) and mortality rates in D.C., with nearly double the rates of Ward 3. These inequities disproportionately affect Black women and highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions and equitable access to care. In 2025, we are doubling down on these efforts by working to remove barriers to healthcare, expanding career pathways, and championing systemic reform. We aim to uplift not just individuals, but entire communities, because progress for Black women is progress for all. This Women's History Month, we recommit ourselves to addressing these disparities that have long defined life East of the River. We thank every one of our partners for standing with us in this journey toward equity and justice. Together, we will continue to build a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. #WomensHistoryMonth #EquityInAction #EmpowerCommunities #JBRF #BlackWomenLead

Last month, Autumn Lockwood made history when she became the first Black woman to coach and win at the Superbowl. She is also one of only two Black women coaching in the NFL, making her achievement even more groundbreaking. Lockwood’s role in Super Bowl LVII as a coach for the Philadelphia Eagles, and her victory, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of representation. Her success opens doors for future generations of Black women to rise to leadership positions in industries where they have been historically underrepresented. At JBRF, we are inspired by women like Autumn Lockwood who break glass ceilings and push boundaries. As we continue to celebrate Women’s History Month, we honor her accomplishments and strive to create more opportunities for Black women in all fields. Let’s continue to uplift and support trailblazers like Autumn, paving the way for the next generation of leaders. #WomensHerStory #JBRF

Throughout history, countless Black women have been the trailblazers for justice, equality, and change. Reverend Dr. Pauli Murray, a legal scholar, activist, and the first Black woman ordained as an Episcopal priest, laid the foundation for many civil rights and gender equality advancements, influencing landmark cases that reshaped America. Born an enslaved woman, Harriet Tubman’s unwavering courage led countless freedom seekers away from captivity via the Underground Railroad. Rosa Parks' quiet defiance sparked a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement, while Sojourner Truth’s iconic speech "Ain't I a Woman?” echoed a call for equality and justice for Black women. Alongside these historical figures, there are countless women who have quietly yet bravely shaped our past and continue to forge a path toward a brighter, more inclusive future. This Women's History Month, we applaud their courage and leadership with a promise to continue our fight to create a better tomorrow for the generations of Black women yet to come. #WomensHerStory #JBRF

March 8th marks International Women’s Day – a global celebration of the strength, achievements, and resilience of women. First recognized in 1911 and officially adopted by the UN in 1977, this day has long been a call to action for gender equity. At JBRF, we are committed to breaking down barriers so that Black women —especially those East of the Anacostia River— have access to the health, economic, and workforce opportunities they deserve. Today, and every day, we celebrate the women leading change in their communities. ?? #IWD2024 #EquityInAction #JBRF

March is a time to reflect on the incredible contributions of women throughout history and especially the women shaping our world today. Women’s History Month began as a week-long celebration in 1981, initiated by Congress to honor the accomplishments of women. In 1987, it was expanded to a full month after the National Women’s History Project’s petition. Now, each March, we celebrate the achievements of women across all fields, recognizing their strength, resilience, and impact. As we honor the women who paved the way, let’s also continue pushing for equality and empowering the next generation of women leaders. #WomensHistoryMonth #HerStory #WomenEmpowerment

Storytelling has always been at the heart of Black activism—from oral histories that preserved culture to modern patient journey maps that highlight disparities. But did you know that during the time of enslavement, Black women used their braids as a form of communication too? Intricate patterns in their hair often served as covert maps, guiding those seeking freedom. This #BlackHistoryMonth, we celebrate the power of stories in all forms. Even in times of despair, stories brought communities together, helping people find a voice and a sense of belongingness. #BraidsAndMaps #BlackActivism #BlackHistoryMonth #JBRF

Black History Month calls us to reflect on the enduring legacies that have shaped our nation's history. One such legacy is that of the Freedmen’s Hospital, a cornerstone in the fight for healthcare equity in the United States. Established in 1862 by the Freedmen’s Bureau in Washington, D.C., it was the only federally-funded healthcare facility for African Americans at the time. Freedmen's Hospital became a beacon of hope, offering essential medical care to communities excluded from mainstream services. It also played a pivotal role in advancing Black medical professionals and empowering generations of healthcare leaders. Today, it continues this legacy as Howard University Hospital. The legacy of Freedmen’s Hospital reflects a struggle that continues to resonate today—the fight for health equity. What was once a critical battle for healthcare access for African Americans remains an ongoing challenge. Yet, this story serves as an inspiring reminder that healthcare is not just a fundamental need; it is the foundation of thriving, resilient communities, and a call to action for a more equitable future for all. #BlackHistoryMonth #FreedmensHospital #HowardUniversityHospital #JBRF