Honoring the Mothers of Gynecology and Exploring an Alaskan Birthing Center
We do the work and we do it well, but to continue to do the work, continuous learning is critical. I am a hands-on and very visual learner, so whenever there is an opportunity to engage in some hands-on learning, I take advantage. Recently, I have had the opportunity to engage in some amazing learning experiences. I am sharing my experience because when we gain knowledge, we should be willing to give it to others.
Anarcha, Lucy & Betsy Day of Reckoning Conference in Montgomery, Ala.
I had the chance to experience the art of Michelle Browder as she opened the exhibit honoring the Mothers of Gynecology. This is rewriting the narrative of history and honoring Anarcha, Lucy and Betsey while also naming the horrific acts that J. Marion Sims performed at the expense of their Black bodies. During this experience, I learned more about the lives of those three enslaved women and their contributions to modern gynecology.
Here are my top three takeaways from this event:
Controlling the narrative prepares for the future.
J. Marion Sims has long been revered as the Father of Gynecology, thus influencing the way Black bodies are treated in the medical system. But, as we work to uplift Anarcha, Lucy and Betsey, we can change the narrative and hold systems accountable for their actions.
Charity is not a replacement for justice (Dr. Cordelia Stearns).
We should absolutely continue providing resources to the community, but we should never stop fighting for justice and for our women to receive the resources needed for better health outcomes.
Art is necessary to Black maternal health.
We connect with art; it tells a story and moves us to action. There is always room in this fight for art.
Geneva Woods Birthing Center in Anchorage, Alaska
I am a Mississippi girl through and through. If the temperature drops below 60 degrees, that is a good reason for me to put on a sweater and a “big” coat. But I took a trip to Anchorage, Alaska…in the cold and it was well worth it. As a part of my participation in the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s Culture of Health Leaders Program, I had the opportunity to convene with three other leaders to learn more about their work, learn more about birthing centers, and just enjoy the beauty that is Anchorage.
Here are my top three takeaways from this trip:
Birth is a beautiful and natural process.
After visiting the Geneva Woods Birthing Center, I was hopeful for the future, but saddened by the current state of maternal health in the United States. Black mothers deserve to have the birthing experience they desire. There are 350 birthing centers in the country and none in Mississippi—there is more work to do!
Nothing replaces learning through conversation (and food).
My colleague, Laura Norton-Cruz, welcomed us into her home during the visit for dinner and conversation about the work that everyone is doing. I left with a wealth of knowledge that I can apply to my work here in Mississippi.
Rest and fun are necessary to continue this work.
We took the time for a hike, snowmobile riding, and viewing some glaciers and it was a much needed reset before getting back to the work.
As we move through Black Maternal Health Week, there are a variety of events to participate in this year. As you participate, I encourage you to take that participation a step further by 1) sharing what you have learned with someone else and 2) using what you have learned to continue to advocate for Black mothers. The crisis has gained national attention, but morbidity and mortality rates are increasing, there is still much work to be done.
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