Reviving Traditional Midwifery: A Global Movement Welcome to our blog post, where we invite you to join the global movement in reviving traditional midwifery and embracing diverse birthing practices. In this post, we will explore the image that represents the mission and values of Ikunle Abiyamo, an organization dedicated to improving maternal and infant health outcomes and promoting inclusive and respectful care. The image featured in this post captures the essence of the global movement to revive traditional midwifery. It showcases a diverse group of individuals, primarily BIPOC, gathered together in a circle. They are surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant flowers, creating a serene and natural setting. In the center of the circle, a pregnant African woman sits on a beautifully woven mat, supported by traditional midwives from Nigeria and birthing practitioners from the United States. What makes this image powerful is the collaboration and cultural exchange happening within the circle. The traditional midwives, dressed in colorful attire adorned with intricate patterns and jewelry, represent their ancestral knowledge and heritage. The birthing practitioners from the US respectfully observe and learn from the traditional practices being shared. This image symbolizes the empowerment of traditional midwives, the validation of marginalized communities' lived experiences, and the commitment to inclusive and respectful care. At Ikunle Abiyamo, we believe in the power of traditional midwifery to address the impact of colonization on birthing practices and improve maternal and infant health outcomes. Our organization aims to develop hybrid birthing practices that bridge the gap between traditional midwives in Nigeria and birthing practitioners in the United States. We host virtual listening sessions for birth workers in both countries, followed by on-the-ground observations and support for uncolonized practices like alternative birthing positions and natural tearing. In addition to our collaborative approach, we also engage with policymakers to advocate for systemic changes and establish a birth center in Nigeria. This birth center will serve as a space for observational learning, where US providers can participate and learn from traditional midwives. By elevating traditional midwifery practices, empowering Nigerian midwives to share their ancestral knowledge globally, and addressing the legacy of colonization in birth practices, we aim to create a more inclusive and respectful approach to childbirth. Our website, which will feature a map highlighting the locations where our team members are working, showcases the global reach and impact of our organization. It will also provide up-to-date information about each initiative within Ikunle Abiyamo, allowing visitors to request registration for retreats and join travel efforts to learn about different traditional birthing practices. We invite you to join us in this global movement to revive traditional midwifery. Together, we can celebrate the diversity of birthing experiences, promote culturally sensitive and inclusive birthing practices, and create a more empowering and respectful approach to childbirth. Visit our website to learn more about our mission, values, and goals, and find out how you can get involved. Let's make a difference in the lives of mothers and infants around the world.
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