Rockville, Maryland – A conference aimed at strengthening Black marriages is scheduled to take place at the Hilton Washington DC Rockville Hotel and Meeting Center from to . The event, titled Black Marriage Week, is a collaborative effort between Montgomery County, the Black Physicians Healthcare Network (BPHN), and the National Center for Children and Families (NCCF).
Organizers describe the conference as an “intimate, elevated” experience designed for Black couples seeking to build lasting legacies, deepen their connection, and prioritize their well-being. The event will be curated by licensed therapists and positioned as more than a typical conference – a “reset” and “recommitment” to the relationship. Space and tickets are limited, and registration is currently open.
The initiative underscores a growing focus on culturally specific healthcare and wellness programs within Montgomery County, Maryland. The BPHN, a program of the NCCF, has been actively working to address health disparities experienced by the African American community since 2021. According to the BPHN, African Americans in Montgomery County and across the United States experience the lowest health status compared to other racial and ethnic groups.
The BPHN’s approach centers on providing person-centered and culturally specific care, recognizing that tailored healthcare solutions can significantly improve outcomes. The network connects individuals with quality healthcare providers and offers educational resources aimed at fostering integrated wellness. In 2024, the BPHN reached nearly 80,000 people with its health and wellness programs, and aims to expand its reach in 2025.
The partnership between Montgomery County’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the NCCF is central to the BPHN’s operations. Funding for the network comes primarily from Montgomery County, supplemented by grants and donations secured by the NCCF. This public-private partnership highlights a commitment to addressing systemic health inequities within the county.
The Black Marriage Week event represents a broadening of the BPHN’s scope, extending its focus beyond traditional healthcare to encompass the emotional and relational well-being of the community. This holistic approach acknowledges the interconnectedness of physical, mental, and emotional health, and the vital role that strong relationships play in overall wellness.
The NCCF has been a long-standing advocate for culturally specific healthcare, providing a range of services designed to reduce health disparities among Black residents in Montgomery County. The organization’s work aligns with a broader national conversation about the importance of addressing social determinants of health – the conditions in the environments where people are born, live, learn, work, play, worship, and age – that affect health outcomes.
The BPHN’s efforts are particularly relevant in light of ongoing challenges faced by the African American community, including historical and ongoing systemic racism, economic disparities, and limited access to quality healthcare. By providing culturally competent care and fostering a sense of community, the network aims to empower individuals to take control of their health and well-being.
The Black Physicians & Healthcare Network maintains an active online presence, connecting with the community through its website (www.bphnetwork.org) and social media channels, including a Facebook page with over 30,000 likes. The network also hosted a Holiday Festival on December 11, 2021, bringing together Montgomery County students, families, and friends to celebrate community and promote a healthy, safe environment.
The upcoming Black Marriage Week event builds on this foundation of community engagement, offering a dedicated space for Black couples to invest in their relationships and build a stronger future together. The event’s emphasis on legacy, love, and lasting connection reflects a commitment to intergenerational well-being and the enduring strength of Black families.
