We see you. We hear you. Your voice matters.
Black Mamas and the people who care for them deserve to have their humanity recognized.
#ListenToMeNow is here to tell the truth about what parents, providers, family members, and communities are experiencing. We are here to offer a safe space for you to tell your story in a way that feels good to you (writing, photo, or video) without fear of reprisal. We will amplify the stories you share (anonymously if you choose) to give others hope, show solidarity, and center our humanity.
For Amber Rose Isaac and all the mothers whose names we do not know.
On April 21, 2020, Amber Rose Isaac died of pregnancy complications after expressing concerns that she had been mistreated and neglected by care providers. Her story is the first that has bubbled to the surface amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, but we know she is not alone. Black birthing parents continue to suffer disrespect, mistreatment, and neglect in health care systems, and because of COVID-19 they are now doing so all alone. They deserve better. We can make it happen, together.
Providers working on the front lines face their own unique risks and challenges.
There are many providers on the front lines working to address racial inequities, center patients, and drive systems-level change. They may be met with resistance or lack the space and opportunity to safely share their experiences, challenges, and trauma. Their voices and experiences matter. We recognize their humanity and role in creating the change we seek.
Our Commitment:
We will push for greater accountability from health systems, decision makers, and policy actors during the coronavirus pandemic and beyond. They must listen to the voices of pregnant and parenting people and to the voices of those providers embedded in communities most affected by inequities and injustice.
Your story will be heard!
Share Your Story
By sharing your story, you are:
*Standing in solidarity with others with similar experiences and giving them hope
*Shining a light on opportunities to create the change parents and providers need
*Helping care providers tend to the lives of pregnant people in a more robust way
*Possibly offering yourself restoration and healing
If you choose to remain anonymous, you may do so. Information you provide in this survey will be used to
Help the public understand what people are experiencing
Shape how we might look at healthcare differently and
Inform policy.
By completing the survey, you are giving Ancient Song Doula Services permission to share your story publicly - anonymously or with your name if you provide it.
“This campaign matters to me because I’m a mother of six children and I want to lay a foundation where they don’t have to address the same concerns that we are facing right now. I want them to have equitable access to care, for them to be seen and heard, and know that someone genuinely cares about their wellbeing.
I’m tired of piece-meal changes. I want to see something that addresses the intersections of those who are providing services and those who are receiving them, understanding that our healthcare system has failed to meet needs of Black and Brown people since its inception. It takes a united front to collectively work together for that change to happen.”
— Chanel Porchia-Albert
Founder and Executive Director of Ancient Song Doula Services