African American females have the highest rates of being overweight or obese compared to other groups in the U.S. Excess weight and obesity among African-American girls and women is a health crisis. About four out of five African American women are overweight or obese. Psychologists, with other professionals, must continue to address this crisis, to ensure healthier lives for women and their families. The prevalence of childhood obesity is significantly higher among racial and/or ethnic minority children in the United States. It is unclear to what extent well-established obesity risk factors in infancy and preschool explain these disparities. This workshop will include specific action recommendations for psychologists, pediatricians and other behavioral health care professionals, parents and caregivers, schools, and child care facilities.