The image shows a Black woman's pregnant belly being measured.

A midwife measures fundal height at Abide Women’s Health Services Easy Access Clinic in Dallas. / M311Y Photography

Black and Brown Birthing Folk Matter

They are deserving of excellent care that centers them and honors their lived experiences.
August 2024
Share Full Article
By Cessilye Smith

THE LORD PLANTED a seed in my heart in 2013, when I was holding my baby girl at a conference and learned about the disparities and health outcomes for Black and brown women. I started Abide, a maternal justice organization [in Texas], to improve birth outcomes in communities with the lowest quality of care by offering services that are easily accessible, evidence-based, holistic, and free from judgment. I strongly believe this urge in my spirit is God-led. And God is saying that Black and brown birthing folk matter and are deserving of excellent care that centers them and honors their lived experiences.

Read the Full Article

You've reached the end of our free magazine preview. For full digital access to Sojourners articles for as little as $4.95, please subscribe now. Your subscription allows us to pay authors fairly for their terrific work!
Subscribe Now!
Cessilye Smith

Cessilye R. Smith is the founder and CEO of Abide Women’s Health Services, providing culturally informed pre- and postnatal care in Dallas.