Kamala Harris Addresses DEI and Maternal Care in Detroit Campaign Event

<p>Former Vice President Kamala Harris stated on September 23, 2026, that an attack on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is an attack on maternal care during a campaign event with Democratic U.S. Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed in Detroit. The event focused on Black maternal health and healthcare costs.</p><p>Harris emphasized the connection between DEI and maternal care, particularly for Black women, stating, "An attack on DEI, to recognize diversity, equity and inclusion, is an attack by definition on maternal care, including the need to protect Black women in connection with their pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum care." She highlighted that maternal mortality rates are disproportionately higher among minority groups, with Black women facing a risk of death that is up to four times higher than that of white women, and Native women three times higher.</p><p>She noted that one in 12 women in America currently lives in a maternal care desert, lacking access to adequate maternal care. Harris criticized political leaders who advocate for "family values" while supporting measures to end DEI programs, which she argues undermine protections for vulnerable communities during pregnancy and childbirth.</p><p>Harris pointed out that despite being one of the strongest economies globally, the U.S. has one of the highest maternal mortality rates. She stated, "It raises the issue of disparities and also hypocrisy when there are leaders who otherwise walk around every day talking about their family values."</p><p>Additionally, Harris criticized former President Donald Trump’s healthcare legislation, referring to it as the "Big Bad Bill," and accused him of cutting Medicaid spending, which she stated is the largest funder for maternity care in America. She mentioned that Trump cut Medicaid funding by a trillion dollars, a move she claims was supported by Republican Senate nominee Mike Rogers.</p><p>Harris concluded her remarks by expressing her support for El-Sayed, stating, "I'm here to support Doctor El Sayed, because, on this subject, I know he will be a champion."</p>