The story of African American midwifery is part of a larger history of Black women’s struggles to protect their own lives, as well as the lives of other Black women and their children. This episode explores the long history of African American midwives, doulas, and birth attendants who have labored to ensure the safety and dignity of Black mothers and their children in and beyond the maternity ward. These women have worked to provide emotional support and medical advocacy for other pregnant and laboring African American women. Their reproductive advocacy makes clear that the delivery room has become an important site to ensure that Black lives matter.

Hosts and Creators: Gillian Frank and Lauren Gutterman Senior Producer: Saniya Lee Ghanoui Producer and Story Editor: Rebecca Davis Assistant Producers: Chris Babits, Isabel Machado and Mallory Szymanski To learn more about our podcast, please visit us at www.sexinghistory.com

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