On Mother’s Day, Governor Gavin Newsom Recognizes One Small Thing Day in California

Today, on Mother’s Day, Governor Gavin Newsom issued a letter recognizing One Small Thing Day in the State of California.

The text of the letter and a copy can be found below:

Mothers and families are the foundation of strong, healthy communities. Supporting moms before, during, and especially after pregnancy is essential to the well-being of children, families, and our state. Although California has the lowest maternal mortality rate in the nation, more than 60% of pregnancy-related deaths in California occur after a mother leaves the hospital. The postpartum period—the year following childbirth—is one of the most vulnerable and often isolating times in a mother’s life.  One in five women in the United States experience maternal mental health conditions, including postpartum depression, with loneliness and perceived isolation among the strongest predictors. More than 40% of new mothers in California report experiencing loneliness or isolation during the first year postpartum. Often, attention is given to the newborn, while the needs of the mother go unrecognized, contributing to feelings of invisibility and isolation.   The Office of the California Surgeon General launched the One Small Thing campaign to encourage all Californians to perform a small act of kindness for new moms, whether they’re a friend, a family member, or a neighbor. Everyday acts of care, such as helping with household chores, bringing over a meal, babysitting, running an errand, or simply checking in are easy yet effective ways to affirm mom’s experiences and ensure they feel seen and heard. You can be the eyes and ears that help new moms recognize when they might need medical care, and together, we can reduce preventable maternal deaths.  Sincerely, Gavin Newsom

LETTER

Mothers and families are the foundation of strong, healthy communities. Supporting moms before, during, and especially after pregnancy is essential to the well-being of children, families, and our state. Although California has the lowest maternal mortality rate in the nation, more than 60% of pregnancy-related deaths in California occur after a mother leaves the hospital. The postpartum period—the year following childbirth—is one of the most vulnerable and often isolating times in a mother’s life. 

One in five women in the United States experience maternal mental health conditions, including postpartum depression, with loneliness and perceived isolation among the strongest predictors. More than 40% of new mothers in California report experiencing loneliness or isolation during the first year postpartum. Often, attention is given to the newborn, while the needs of the mother go unrecognized, contributing to feelings of invisibility and isolation.  

The Office of the California Surgeon General launched the One Small Thing campaign to encourage all Californians to perform a small act of kindness for new moms, whether they’re a friend, a family member, or a neighbor. Everyday acts of care, such as helping with household chores, bringing over a meal, babysitting, running an errand, or simply checking in are easy yet effective ways to affirm mom’s experiences and ensure they feel seen and heard. You can be the eyes and ears that help new moms recognize when they might need medical care, and together, we can reduce preventable maternal deaths. 

Sincerely,

Gavin Newsom