When the Water Breaks — Hannah Beier

When the water breaks

I photographed and art-directed a body of work featured alongside Layla Jones's article "When the Water Breaks" for The Philadelphia Inquirer. This installment of "A More Perfect Union" delves into Philadelphia's deep-rooted history of systemic racism in America and its connection to the current maternal mortality crisis. Known as the birthplace of modern American medicine, Philadelphia is home to the nation's first hospital, first medical school, and numerous early American medical associations. However, the city’s legacy as the birthplace of American obstetrics is lesser known. While Philadelphia’s contributions to maternal health have saved countless lives, they have often come at the expense of Black women, who have experienced significant disparities and risks.

Natasha Carter, 36, seen at 28 weeks pregnant, poses for a portrait in Newtown, Pennsylvania.

Alicia Hutton, 30, poses for a picture with her 11-month-old son, Ezra Hutton, at her home in Camden, New Jersey.

(L-R) Amanii Alexander, 7, Jeremiah Mosby, 12, Emiah Cokley, 15, King Alexander, 2, and Falise Alexander, 32, pose for a picture in Brookhaven, Pennsylvania.

Natasha Carter’s, 36, ultrasound images are pictured in her home in Trevose, Pennsylvania.

Alicia Hutton, 30, poses for a portrait with her 11-month-old son, Ezra Hutton, at her home in Camden, New Jersey.

Natasha Carter, 36, seen at 28 weeks pregnant, poses for a portrait at her home in Trevose, Pennsylvania.

(L-R) Natasha Carter, 36, Alicia Hutton, 30, and Falise Alexander, 32, pose for a portrait in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Falise Alexander, 32, seen at 32 weeks pregnant, pose for a portrait with her son, Andre Alexander Jr., 4, in Brookhaven, Pennsylvania.

Natasha Carter, 36, seen at 28 weeks pregnant, poses for a portrait at her home in Trevose, Pennsylvania.