Breaking the Chains of Colonization: Transforming Birthing Practices Welcome to our blog post titled "Breaking the Chains of Colonization: Transforming Birthing Practices." Today, we are excited to introduce you to Ikunle Abiyamo, a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing the impact of colonization on birthing practices and improving maternal and infant health outcomes. At Ikunle Abiyamo, our mission is to develop hybrid birthing practices through collaboration between traditional midwives in Nigeria and birthing practitioners in the United States. We believe that by combining the ancestral knowledge of traditional midwives with the advancements in modern healthcare, we can create a more inclusive and respectful approach to birthing. Our founder, Sauleiha Akangbe, brings a wealth of experience to this initiative. With her extensive knowledge of US hospital systems, she has successfully integrated culturally affirming birth practices, traditions, and professionals within a leading US hospital institution. Additionally, her studies in Nigeria as a traditional midwife have allowed her to facilitate the training of over 30 American birth workers in traditional practices. To achieve our goals, we have planned a series of initiatives. We will be hosting virtual listening sessions for birth workers in both Nigeria and the United States, providing a platform for open dialogue and the sharing of experiences. These sessions will be followed by on-the-ground observations and support for uncolonized practices such as alternative birthing positions and natural tearing. Engaging with policymakers is another crucial aspect of our work. We aim to advocate for systemic changes that promote culturally sensitive and inclusive birthing practices. By collaborating with policymakers, we can create an environment that supports and validates the lived experiences of marginalized communities. Furthermore, we are committed to establishing a birth center in Nigeria. This center will serve as a hub for cross-cultural learning and collaboration, allowing US providers to participate in observational learning and gain a deeper understanding of traditional midwifery practices. Through this initiative, we hope to elevate traditional midwifery practices, empower Nigerian midwives to share their ancestral knowledge globally, and address the legacy of colonization in birth practices. To keep you updated on our progress and initiatives, we have created a website for Ikunle Abiyamo. On our website, you will find sections dedicated to our mission, values, and goals. You can also subscribe to our newsletter, donate to support our cause, and register as a member to join our community. Additionally, we have included information about the people involved in our initiative, showcasing the global reach and impact of our organization on a map. The design of our website is inviting and inclusive. We have chosen diverse photos primarily featuring BIPOC individuals to reflect the cultural diversity of our initiative. You will see images of African and African American pregnant women, a curved type design, and earth tones that create a warm and natural feel. Our aim is to celebrate the diversity of birthing experiences and create an inclusive visual experience for our visitors. In conclusion, Ikunle Abiyamo is dedicated to improving birthing practices globally and promoting inclusive and respectful care. We believe in the power of collaboration, cross-cultural learning, and the celebration of traditional knowledge. Together, we can break the chains of colonization and transform birthing practices for the better. Join us on this journey of empowerment and change.
Comments