Midwives are trained to provide obstetric and gynecological care during the pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum periods, centered on the relationship between the midwife and the pregnant woman. Integrating midwives across health care settings is associated with better health outcomes for both the parent and the child. In Black communities, which are among those most affected by maternal care deserts and health care provider shortages, Black midwives can further improve health outcomes by providing culturally relevant and sensitive care.
 
A lack of affordable training opportunities, additional financial barriers, and a lack of insurance coverage limit the capacity to practice midwifery, especially Black midwifery, in hospitals and birth centers. This is especially unfortunate, as the practice of midwifery has been monumental in offering high-quality, life-saving obstetric and gynecological care throughout history, specifically through the cultural tradition of the Black “Grand” or “Granny” Midwives.
 
For these reasons, we are introducing a resolution to recognize March 31, 2026, as Black Midwives Day in Pennsylvania. Recognizing Black Midwives Day is essential in raising awareness on the state of Black maternal health, the causes of disparate maternal health outcomes, the health disparities impacting Black communities, and the steps being taken to address access gaps to high-quality care as the Pennsylvania Black Maternal Health Caucus works to achieve maternal health for all moms in our Commonwealth.
 
Please join us in co-sponsoring this resolution to recognize and emphasize the importance of Black midwifery.