MISSION STATEMENT

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Throughout the 20th century, Indigenous languages, culture, and ceremony were discouraged and forbidden by the Canadian government. This prohibition extended to the practice of midwifery and celebration of birth among Indigenous people, who were forced to abandon their practices and rely on western medicine. Currently, birth outcomes reflect that modern prenatal and postnatal services are inadequate for Indigenous women and families. Furthermore, many Indigenous women report having negative birth experiences, such as having to travel long distances to receive care, or having to deal with racism from hospital staff.

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Indigenous Birthworkers, cultural birth helpers and aunties are committed to improving birth for Indigenous women and families. Our mission is to:

• Advocate for indigneous folks and families as they navigate the health care system.

• Facilitate and host prenatal and postnatal community outreach programs that are culturally-appropriate, that incorporate traditional Indigenous

• teachings.

• Revitalize traditional Indigenous reproductive practices.

• Provide access to aunty support for families who request this kind of care.

• Support our network of birth workers (cultural birth helpers, midwives, nurses, etc).

• Create safe birth spaces for Indigenous pregnant folks, in both rural and urban settings, on- and off-reserve/Metis settlements.

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By achieving these goals in a good way, we strive to improve accessibility to a circle of support, compassionate health care and experiences for Indigenous families.