MISSION
Black Mothers in Power seeks to eradicate racial health disparities for Black birthing people and Black babies throughout Delaware.
At BMIP we see the word “Mother” as an all-encompassing term. Mothers are not confined to gender or those who have given or can give physiological birth. Mothers of all shapes, sizes, genders, and ways of “birthing” are welcome here. Not all who give birth physically are mothers or have children. We recognize the nuance and privilege of being a Mother on this plane of existence could never be defined in the narrow view of physiological birth. So whether you are a Drag Mother, Earth Mother, or Mother of Dragons. BMIP sees you.
VISION
Black Mothers in Power envisions a state where all Black birthing people are informed about their birthing rights, have autonomy over their reproductive decisions, and are treated equitably in the healthcare system.
Our exclusive members-only platforms are an integral part of changing the birthing experience for all Black people in Delaware. All members immediately unlock access to Birth Justice training at no additional cost.
You'll contribute to an active social justice committee and network with other local birthing people and Birthworkers to advocate for systematic changes that genuinely save lives.
VALUES
Significant Impact: We are an action-oriented organization who aims to fill in needs for our target population of Black mothers. It is imperative that impact is at the core of our programming.
Unapologetically Black: We are Black women-centered and led. We understand that social issues permeate every population , but we are unapologetic in our approach to reach marginalized populations of which we identify with. We are embedded in the ideologies of a spectrum of Blackness: Afrocentrism, Black Womanism, Black liberation, Black existentialism, Post Black-ness, Anti-Blackness, Black Nationalism, Black Feminism, Pan-Africanism, to name a few.
Center Those Most Impacted: The most marginalized groups of Black birthing people are a part of the conversation. Those most impacted are making the decisions at every level of the organization.
Intersectionality: Ensuring all are connected to the work is vital to the success of our mission.(e.g., involving those incarcerated, Black men, LGBTQ, all types of families, etc.). Centering an intersectional approach means understanding how power systems operate to oppress and violently attack Black people, historically and systematically. We are grounded in the human rights framework of reproductive justice.
Norms – Our Guiding Principles
Build a Culture of Joy and Community: Social change work is tough, so it's important we can have fun while doing it. We need to share appreciation, enjoyable gatherings, and laughs.
Build a Team that takes pride in their work: We are actively “leaving a place better than we found it”. We do HEART work and it requires commitment.
Improve Our Skills and Knowledge: Aim for personal and group growth-oriented leadership development, coaching, and constant evaluation/adaptation.
Teach and Collaborate: We welcome people from all walks of life and backgrounds. We believe that we can all learn something from each other, and everyone is an asset to the work that we do.
Challenge Ourselves and Others to Grow: Through mutual feedback, we can support ourselves and others to develop.
Action-Oriented Culture: Foster a culture of consistent action.
We are all Changemakers and Pacesetters: Our priority is to change the landscape of Black Maternal Health and we all will fully embody what that work looks like.
Develop Broad-Based Leadership: We want every person and team to consider how they are preparing themselves and others to take on new tasks and roles. It's important for every person to be intentionally asked to try new efforts.
Developing Leaders: We want to hear from everyone within BMIP. Feedback is the foundation for growth. We want everyone to have a voice in not only the world around us but in the development of BMIP.
Significant Impact: Filling in a core need for significant change and impact. Every day people are a part of making significant change and impact. We are action oriented.
Unapologetically Black: Talking about the issues centering the Black experiences and perspectives. We are Black women-centered and led.
Center Those Most Impacted: The most marginalized groups of Black birthing people are a part of the conversation. Those most impacted are making the decisions at every level of the organization.
Intersectionality: Ensuring all are connected to the work. (e.g., involving those incarcerated, Black men, LGBTQ, all types of families, etc.). Understanding how power systems operate to oppress and violently attack Black bodies, historically and systematically. We are grounded in the human rights framework of reproductive justice.
