Advancing Reproductive Justice: Black History Month Feature with Amaka Agozino of Tapestry Health
February 20, 2025 | By Rose Charles
Who are Systemic Disruptors?
Systemic disruptors are leaders who challenge and transform unjust systems through creative, community-centered approaches. They combine cultural power with innovative strategies to address root causes, uplift marginalized voices, and create lasting social change. These changemakers don't just work within existing structures—they reimagine and rebuild them to benefit marginalized and historically underrepresented communities.
Introduction
At the intersection of healthcare access and social justice, leaders like Amaka Agozino are transforming how communities engage with reproductive healthcare. As Development and Communications Administrative Assistant at Tapestry Health, Amaka combines strategic storytelling with community-centered approaches to expand access to vital health services and education across Western Massachusetts.
Systemic Disruptor Feature
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Systemic Disruptor Feature •
Meet Amaka Agozino, Development and Communications Administrative Assistant at Tapestry Health, and our Black History Month Systemic Disruptor Feature! 🌟
Amaka's work embodies Tapestry Health's mission of health equity and inclusion. From her teenage years, she has been passionate about reproductive healthcare access, driving her commitment to keeping communities safe and informed through strategic storytelling and education.
Drawing inspiration from revolutionary communicators like Kathleen Cleaver, she understands that authentic storytelling establishes new standards of truth that dismantle oppressive narratives.
About Tapestry Health
For over 50 years, Tapestry Health has been a cornerstone of reproductive and sexual healthcare in Western Massachusetts. As a federally qualified health center, they provide essential services including reproductive healthcare, HIV services, WIC nutrition services, and needle exchange programs. Their commitment to health equity and inclusion has made them a vital resource for marginalized communities.
Our conversation:
Why did you become dedicated to working towards reproductive justice?
“Ever since I was a teenager, I have been passionate about access to reproductive health care and education. I believe that these two initiatives keep our community safe and informed! So, I knew working at Tapestry Health would be a perfect fit.”
What is the biggest challenge facing reproductive justice, and specifically your work?
“The biggest challenge in promoting reproductive healthcare and education is often opposing societal perspectives and shifting political climates. Nevertheless, these issues persist, as does the work to address them.”
How do you measure success as an organization in three words:
“Impact, Awareness, Solutions”
In your experience, what role does creative storytelling play in dismantling oppressive narratives and systems?
“Creative storytelling brings genuine, authentic perspectives to the forefront. When these stories are shared, they establish a standard of truth that challenges and debunks oppressive narratives. Hearing people's lived experiences sheds light on systemic flaws and inspires us to find better solutions.”
How can organizations and individuals better support Black-led initiatives and community power, not just during Black History Month but year-round?
“People can support Black-led initiatives and community power by sharing these ideas in spaces where others may not be familiar with them. Introducing new people to these ideas at any time of the year keeps the movement vibrant and ensures ongoing education.”
What Black leaders or movements (past or present) have inspired your work in social justice? How have their legacies influenced your approach?
“Kathleen Cleaver is an inspiration of mine. She is known for serving as the Communications Secretary of the Black Panther Party, as well as being a distinguished Yale Law graduate and professor. I've always admired how expressively yet firmly she speaks on issues affecting Black women. My favorite quote of hers is, 'Dig it? Isn't it beautiful?'—a reflection on Black hair.”
Meet the Author
Rose Charles | Marketing Strategist at Neta Collab
Rose Charles is a creative communications professional based in Miramar, FL, who is passionate about amplifying voices for social justice and equity. She has five years of experience in communications, marketing, and non-profit. Rose's work is deeply personal, driven by a desire to uplift marginalized communities. Her passion for storytelling, crafting multicultural and campaign strategies for BIPOC communities, and writing is a testament to her commitment. As an immigrant, Rose's work is a reflection of her own journey, particularly in her efforts to bridge the gap between the Latinx and Haitian communities. Her advocacy for climate justice further underscores her dedication to marginalized communities.
