Supporting the recognition of March 14, 2026, as "Black Midwives Day" and the longstanding and invaluable contributions of Black midwives to maternal and infant health in the United States.

This resolution advocates for the recognition of March 14, 2026, as "Black Midwives Day" to acknowledge the longstanding and invaluable contributions of Black midwives to maternal and infant health in the United States. It highlights the importance of midwifery in improving maternal health outcomes, especially by addressing gaps in access to high-quality care and promoting community-driven solutions. The resolution supports the Black Midwives Day campaign, founded by the National Black Midwives Alliance, as a day for awareness, activism, education, and community building. The resolution notes the severe maternal mortality crisis in the U.S., disproportionately affecting Black women, and the existence of maternity care deserts where millions lack obstetric care. It emphasizes that midwife-led care, particularly from Black midwives, can significantly reduce medical interventions, lower C-section rates, and provide culturally competent care that builds trust and improves outcomes for Black mothers and infants. Increasing the number of Black midwives is critical for addressing these disparities and fully integrating midwifery into the U.S. maternity care system. To address these issues, the resolution encourages federal, state, and local governments to take proactive measures, including diversifying the perinatal workforce and increasing access to culturally congruent maternal health care. It specifically calls for increased funding, training, and mentorship for Black midwives, alongside removing barriers to their practice and recognizing all training pathways. The resolution also promotes the autonomous practice of all midwives, advocates for TRICARE and Medicaid coverage for their services, and urges the destigmatization and decriminalization of midwifery in various settings.