Southern Birth Justice Network

The Southern Birth Justice Network (SBJN) is a U.S. nonprofit organization with a mission to improve access to community-based midwifery and doula care, particularly for marginalized communities such as people of color (POC), LGBTQ+, and low-income individuals. As a 501(c)(3) organization, it operates under the tax ID number 61-1565139.

Purpose and Activities

SBJN aligns with global reproductive justice movements, focusing on holistic, humanistic, and culturally centered healthcare during the childbearing year. This includes comprehensive care across the spectrum of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum services. The organization seeks to empower communities through access to traditional and indigenous healers such as midwives.

Key activities include:

• Midwife Assistant Training: Training programs for midwife assistants to increase the availability of qualified birth workers.
• Birth Justice Doula Training: Training programs that focus on culturally competent doula care.
• Mobile Midwife Clinic: Providing accessible care through mobile clinics to address maternal health disparities.
• Community Outreach Events: Hosting events to educate families about their birth rights and engage communities in advocating for reproductive justice.

Partnerships and Collaborations

SBJN collaborates with various community organizations and healthcare providers to maximize service delivery. Partners include Dade County Street Response, Florida International University's Center for Women and Gender Studies, Miami Diaper Bank, and others. These partnerships help SBJN achieve its goal of increasing access to quality care in underserved areas and advocating for policy changes that benefit these communities.

Birth Justice Framework

SBJN is instrumental in promoting the concept of Birth Justice, which emphasizes the rights of all individuals to choose when, where, and with whom they give birth. This framework includes access to abortion, miscarriage support, prenatal care, birth options, and postpartum support. It supports breastfeeding and recognizes the importance of culturally sensitive care in addressing historical trauma and oppression related to reproductive choices.

Building a Birth and Wellness Center

A major project for SBJN is establishing a Birth and Wellness Center, aimed at serving as a hub for birth justice activities, workforce development, and community engagement. This center will help address recent hospital closures and support marginalized communities in South Florida.

Financials

Recent financial data show that SBJN has revenues reflecting significant program service income and some fluctuations in total assets and liabilities. Donations to the organization are tax-deductible.

Impact and Recognition

Through its efforts, SBJN has made a notable impact by training hundreds of birth workers and advocating for policies that promote birth justice. It continues to be recognized for its innovative approach to addressing maternal health disparities and promoting cultural and community-centered care.