Disclaimer: Student mock campaign for a group project

We, the undersigned, call on the Government of Canada and healthcare authorities to end the policy of forcing Indigenous mothers to leave their communities for childbirth. Birth is a sacred event, meant to be celebrated within the cultural, emotional, and family contexts of one’s community—not in distant, unfamiliar hospitals.

Forced birth evacuations not only strip Indigenous mothers of their autonomy and informed consent, but they also cause deep emotional and cultural harm. Research shows that these practices contribute to trauma and exacerbate existing healthcare inequities (Bacciaglia et al., 2023; Allan et al., 2015). Indigenous women deserve access to culturally safe, community-based birthing options that honor traditional practices and support their wellbeing.

We demand:

The immediate cessation of forced birth evacuations.
Increased funding and support for Indigenous-led birthing centers and midwifery programs.
Policy reforms that align with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action #20, ensuring that Indigenous maternal care is respectful, equitable, and culturally safe.
Join us in demanding change. Let’s empower Indigenous mothers to give birth on their own terms—at home, surrounded by family and tradition.

#BringBirthHome  #BirthingOnOurTerms  #DecolonizeBirth