Midwives have shown up alongside women for as long as history has been spoken.

And today, we are the front lines for women fighting for their birth rights. 

Yet, in this noble profession, we are constantly under scrutiny and pressure from licensing systems designed to eradicate our practices through modernization. We learn to prepare for the possibility of criminal charges and to protect our clients from undue investigations by Child Protective Services. It's a reality that weighs heavily on us, and it's time for change.

Midwifery is not a crime. Families deserve the right to choose the manner in which they bring new life into this world, free from unwarranted interference. However, the current system often treats our essential work with suspicion, and some midwives even find themselves behind bars for simply doing their job. This is not only unjust but also detrimental to the diverse choices that families should have access to across the United States.

Traditional midwives play a vital role in our communities by providing personalized care and support during one of the most significant moments in a family's life. They offer mothers a chance to birth in a manner that feels right to them, with a trusted caregiver who respects their wishes and beliefs. Such autonomy in birth choices should be celebrated, not criminalized.

We urge the federal government to implement comprehensive safeguards that protect traditional midwifery practices and uphold the rights of families to make informed decisions about their childbirth experience. This includes recognizing and supporting the apprenticeship training model, as well as initiating reforms that prevent the unjust criminalization and persecution of traditional midwives.

By signing this petition, you stand with us in supporting women's rights, advocating for choice, and preserving the artistry and tradition of midwifery. Together, let's create a future where traditional midwives can practice without fear and families can choose what is best for their birth experience. Sign this petition to demand federal safeguards and ensure that midwifery remains a respected and viable option for all.

Join us in making this crucial change. Your support is essential for protecting midwives and the birth rights of families across the nation. Please sign and share this petition to amplify our voices and push for the changes needed to uphold choice and autonomy in childbirth.

FIND OUT HOW TO HELP AT NATBR.ORG

PLEASE CONSIDER DONATING AT https://givesendgo.com/preservepamidwifery?utm_source=website_share&utm_medium=sharelink&utm_campaign=preservepamidwifery