Celebrating the Black Granny Midwives

Margaret Charles Smith

Black Granny Midwives of the South: A Legacy of Empowerment and Care

Black midwives have a long and rich history of providing quality care and support to expectant families, particularly in the rural South of the United States. In this region, a unique tradition of Black granny midwives emerged, made up of women who were respected and trusted members of their communities. These granny midwives were a source of care and support for expecting mothers, often serving as the primary healthcare provider for women in rural and poverty-stricken areas. They were often the only birth attendants available, and their services were highly valued because of their experience and compassion for black people. They also served as educators and mentors for the next generation of midwives.

The legacy of Black granny midwives dates back to times of slavery in America. These midwives assisted the wives of the white slave owners as well as the other enslaved women on the plantation. Despite facing discrimination and racist persecution, they continued to provide essential care for the community, after slavery was abolished. Black granny midwives faced significant challenges in the early to mid-20th century, as the white medical establishment sought to assert its dominance in the field of obstetrics. Ironically, the field of obstetrics was dominated by people without uteruses, also known as men(white men to be specific). They were often discriminated against and criminalized, and many were forced to stop practicing due to restrictive laws and intimidation.

However, the tradition of Black midwifery has not been completely lost. Today, there are many efforts to revive and preserve this important part of Southern Black culture, as a new generation of midwives seeks to continue the legacy of care and empowerment. There are many black woman-led organizations pushing back against the marginalization of black midwives and general gatekeeping that exist in the birth-work community.

One of the major challenges faced by Black women seeking certification as midwives is a lack of access to mentorship and training programs. Unfortunately, the certification process and the institutions that provide certification are overwhelmingly led and run by white women. Many of these white midwives do not understand the unique needs and experiences of Black women and their families, and the unique experiences of the community at large. They have #BlackLivesMatter in their Instagram profile, while simultaneously perpetuating racism in the field of pregnancy and birth. Additionally, many certification programs are expensive and are not accessible to Black women who are already facing financial barriers in their everyday lives.

The Black granny midwives of the South played a crucial role in the lives of their communities, and continue to serve as a source of empowerment and strength for this generation of midwives. Their legacy continues to inspire and inform the work of midwives and birth assistants across this country. We can only hope to continue their legacy of care at this crucial time in our history. In the mighty words of SistahMidwife, #BirthisTheRevolution.