Bill > SR398

This resolution recognizes March 14, 2025, as Black Midwives Day, highlighting the critical contributions of Black midwives to maternal and infant healthcare in Georgia. The resolution emphasizes the historical and ongoing importance of Black midwives in addressing healthcare disparities, particularly for Black birthing people, and acknowledges the challenges they face, including restrictive laws, limited access to training, and systemic racism. It highlights the significant decline of midwives in the Southeast from 43,000 to just a few per state by the 1980s and notes that current Black midwives serving out-of-hospital are proving to have better outcomes than hospitals. The resolution also draws attention to Georgia's maternity care desert crisis, where many women lack access to maternity care, and argues that incorporating midwives more fully into the healthcare system could help reduce maternal health disparities. By officially recognizing Black Midwives Day, the resolution aims to increase awareness about Black maternal health challenges, honor the legacy of Black midwives, and support community-driven healthcare solutions.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/71382