In this episode, Kimberly and Racha discuss Gather Grounded Midwifery, a midwifery practice and birth home created by Racha. They also discuss Racha’s generational influence on midwifery care, how she ended up in Virginia as a California native, and how the pandemic impacted midwives in particular. They also discuss the rich and complicated history of Black midwifery and how it tends to entire communities. The link to contribute to Gather Grounded Midwifery to help this Black-owned birthing home provide the resources and services can be found below!
Bio
Racha Tahani Lawler Queen is a Black homebirth mama, wife, and midwife of 20 years. She is the CEO and owner of Gather Grounded Midwifery, a Black-owned and operated birthing home and center in the Musqueam Territory / Richmond, Virginia. Opening this Spring 2023, Gather Grounded Midwifery is a safe and welcoming place where Black, Brown, Indigenous, and queer families are prioritized. The birthing home features two birthing suites, where our very own can receive pregnancy, birth and postpartum care in a unique retreat space, nestled in a predominantly Black neighborhood. Gather Grounded Midwifery has a goal to provide families with a sacred place to receive prenatal care, labor amongst 100-year-old pine trees, birth in and out of water, and receive postpartum care that’s in alignment with their individual, Ancestral and spiritual practices. We will also support and partner with Black businesses that prioritize the healing and protection of Black birthers and families. Find the GoFundMe link below to contribute to this important space.
What She Shares
- The impact of the pandemic on midwives and home births
- How and why Racha relocated to Richmond, Virginia from LA to create a birthing home
- Black midwifery history and community care
- The impact of a birthing home on a community
Resources
Website: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-a-black-owned-operated-birthing-home
MotherCircle Waitlist: kimberlyannjohnson.com/mothercircle-waitlist/
Kimberly’s In-Person Events: kimberlyannjohnson.com/events/
To order a set of 5 or more of Kimberly’s books at a discount for your office, clinic, or as gifts for your clients please contact us here.
