JUSTICE & EQUALITY

Midwifery work is activist work, and until our society breaks down systems of oppression that contribute to our high maternal and infant mortality rate, particularly for Black women, it will be so. Midwives guide families to make informed decisions in their prenatal, labor, birth, and postpartum care based on evidence-based practices, knowledge sharing, and collaboration. Prior to serving families as a midwife, Sam had a ten-year career in various non-profit organizations that focused on social justice issues. She did everything from organizing on college campuses on issues including voting rights and ending sexual violence to directing large-scale events that brought together environmentalists and union workers. Sam also co-founded an abortion fund, the Texas Equal Access Fund, in 2005. Sam continues to be an advocate for reproductive justice and believes that:

-Everyone deserves the right to birth where, when, and with whom they choose.

-Every pregnant person should be treated with dignity and respect.

-The pregnant person’s bodily autonomy and bodily integrity are paramount in the care they receive

-It is critical to center Black women in midwifery work in order to adequately address anti-racism in midwifery care and health care if we are going to reduce the incidence of Black maternal mortality and morbidity in the U.S.

-As a white, queer, cisgender woman it is critical to recognize privilege and take meaningful steps toward eradicating racism, classism, ableism, ageism, homophobia, and transphobia in birth work.

-Reproductive justice is intricately linked with environmental justice, LGBTQIA+ rights, women’s rights, anti-racism work, and the movement to end sexual violence.

EDUCATION

There are actions YOU can take to help make the world a safer, kinder, and gentler place for all families! Check out the links below to educate yourself and to learn how you can make a difference: