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MELANIN & MATERNAL WELLNESS

Advocacy

Birth justice is a concept that advocates for equitable and respectful care for all birthing individuals, regardless of their socio-economic status, race, ethnicity, or any other factor that may marginalize them. It recognizes that the birthing experience is a fundamental human right and should be a positive and empowering event in a person's life.

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In many societies, there are significant disparities in access to quality and respectful maternity care. Marginalized communities, such as people of color, low-income individuals, and those living in rural areas, often face barriers to receiving the care and support they need during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. These disparities can have detrimental effects on both the physical and emotional well-being of birthing individuals and their babies.

Asé

Moving Maternal Health Legislation through the African-Centered Lens Toolkit

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One of the key aspects of birth justice is the recognition that every person has the right to make informed decisions about their own bodies and reproductive health. This includes the right to choose where and with whom they give birth, as well as the right to access comprehensive and unbiased information about their options. Birth justice emphasizes the importance of consent and autonomy, ensuring that birthing individuals are active participants in their own care and are treated with respect and dignity throughout the process.

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Another crucial component of birth justice is addressing the systemic inequalities that contribute to disparities in maternal health outcomes. This includes addressing the social determinants of health, such as poverty, racism, and lack of access to education and healthcare. By addressing these root causes, birth justice seeks to create an environment where all individuals have equal opportunities for a safe and positive birth experience.

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In recent years, birth justice has gained recognition as a necessary framework for improving maternal health outcomes and addressing disparities in maternity care. Activists and organizations have been working to raise awareness about the importance of birth justice and to advocate for policy changes that promote equitable and respectful care. This includes efforts to reduce unnecessary medical interventions, increase access to midwifery care, improve cultural competency among healthcare providers, and address racial biases within the healthcare system.

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However, there is still much work to be done to ensure that birth justice becomes a reality for all birthing individuals. It requires a collective effort from healthcare providers, policymakers, communities, and individuals to dismantle systemic barriers and create an inclusive and supportive environment for pregnancy and childbirth. This includes addressing implicit biases within the healthcare system, increasing representation of marginalized communities in decision-making positions, and investing in comprehensive and culturally competent care.

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Birth justice is a crucial concept that advocates for equitable and respectful care for all birthing individuals. It recognizes that the birthing experience is a fundamental human right and should be a positive and empowering event in a person's life. By addressing disparities in access to care, promoting informed decision-making, and addressing systemic inequalities, birth justice aims to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all individuals to have a safe and positive birth experience.

Blessed Arrival Baby Shower

On Saturday, November 11th, we partnered with Greater Mt. Zion A.M.E and Greater Mt. Zion CDC to host a Village Family shower where 10 Trenton families received childbirth preparation education.

 

There were games, prizes, and opportunities to connect with other parents and caregivers. The participating families shared their parenting tips, swapped stories, and built lasting connections within our beautiful birthing community.

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