Spinning Babies® Commitment to Anti-Racism, Equity and Access

Spinning Babies® Commitment to Anti-Racism, Equity and Access

We at Spinning Babies® are committed to ensuring all pregnant individuals have the opportunity to experience normal physiological birth and to receive respectful, dignified care for themselves and their babies.

Racism, both structural and interpersonal, continues to impact birth outcomes and access to care. Black, Indigenous, and People of Color experience significantly higher rates of maternal and infant morbidity and mortality in the United States.

The stress of racism contributes to preterm birth, low birth weight, and the deaths of mothers and babies across economic levels. Spinning Babies® recognizes that racism includes both intentional and unintentional actions by individuals, groups, and institutions, within both mainstream and alternative birth cultures.

In our commitment to improving birth outcomes and addressing disparities, we continually examine our practices. We recognize this as an ongoing process and remain committed to working against discrimination and oppression in all forms, including those based on race, religion, nationality, and sexual orientation.

Spinning Babies® works to expand access to education, support providers and educators, and center the needs of communities most impacted by these inequities.
Respectful care before, during, and after childbirth is a human right.

Ongoing Commitments

Spinning Babies® commits to:

  • Actively examining and improving our practices through an anti-racist and anti-oppressive lens
  • Supporting ongoing cultural awareness and education for Approved Trainers
  • Expanding access to training and education for individuals and communities disproportionately impacted by inequities in birth outcomes
  • Increasing representation and support for Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color among educators, birthworkers, and providers
  • Reviewing and evolving curriculum to reflect inclusive, respectful, and culturally responsive practices

Understanding Disparities in Birth Outcomes

Maternal and infant health outcomes in the United States reflect significant and persistent disparities. Black and Indigenous families, in particular, experience disproportionately high rates of maternal and infant mortality and complications.

These disparities are shaped by systemic inequities, chronic stress, bias within healthcare systems, and unequal access to resources and support—regardless of income or education level.

Spinning Babies® acknowledges the urgency of this reality and is committed to contributing to improved outcomes through education, access, and respectful care practices.

Equity Access to Workshops and Training

Our Equity Access Seats are designed to expand access for Black, Indigenous, and other communities disproportionately impacted by systemic inequities in maternal and infant health outcomes.

These seats are part of our broader commitment to reducing barriers to participation in professional education and increasing access for those who have been historically underserved or underrepresented in birthwork training.

Equity Access Seats support individuals who:

  • Are part of Black, Indigenous, and other communities disproportionately impacted by maternal and infant health disparities, or demonstrate a clear and accountable commitment to serving these communities
  • Are committed to bringing knowledge, skills, and resources back to underserved communities
  • Have experienced barriers to accessing professional training opportunities

 

Application and Access Process

Equity Access Seats are offered through the following process:

  • Equity Access Seats for our workshops can be requested directly with the Spinning Babies® Approved Trainer
  • For four-day programs, criteria and application details are provided on event pages
  • Selection is based on alignment with the purpose of expanding access and addressing disparities in maternal and infant health outcomes
  • Priority for Equity Access Seats is given to local and regional applicants who are part of Black, Indigenous, and other communities disproportionately impacted by these inequities.
  • If additional seats remain, they may be offered to applicants who have experienced barriers to accessing training or who demonstrate a clear and accountable commitment to serving these communities.

Commitment to Fair and Open Access

Spinning Babies® programs are open to all participants. Equity Access Seats are one way we work to direct resources toward those most impacted by inequities in birth outcomes, while maintaining an inclusive and accessible learning environment.

Our approach reflects both our commitment to anti-racism and our responsibility to operate in alignment with applicable guidelines and partner requirements.

Gratitude and Ongoing Work

We express deep gratitude to the educators, birthworkers, and community leaders who continue to guide this work and hold us accountable.

We also acknowledge the contributions of those who have helped shape this work over time, including the late Ms. Claudia Booker for her gracious direction in our equity work, and Spinning Babies® Approved Trainer Nicole Morales, alongside many others who continue to contribute to this work.

We recognize that this is an ongoing process without an endpoint. Through continued reflection, collaboration, and action, we remain committed to supporting more equitable birth outcomes for all families and communities.