Navigating the Waters of Pregnancy and Birth in Hawaii: A letter to our community.

Hawaii, a place deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the Hawaiian people, has a history rich with master navigators who have traversed the vast oceans using their knowledge of the land, the stars, and the elements. Similarly, the practice of midwifery, an ancient indigenous birthing wisdom passed down through generations, has facilitated women in their own navigation of birthing. Generations. As as of recent, is facing challenges. The convergence of historical context and the current political climate has put this sacred practice under attack and polarization. What are the implications of the recent regulations on indigenous midwifery practices in Hawaii, the disorientation it creates for local birthing mothers, the next generation and the division it fosters within the community?

Indigenous Midwifery Practices in Hawaii:

For generations, indigenous midwifery practices have played a vital role in the birthing process, not only in the lives of Hawaiian women, but all across the globe. In Hawaii,  these practices, deeply rooted in the principles of aloha ‘āina (to care for the land), aloha akua (to know God as love), and aloha kanaka (to care for its people), have provided a holistic and culturally significant approach to pregnancy and birth. The wisdom passed down from generation to generation ensured that mothers received truly in-tact prenatal and postpartum care, drawing from the interconnectedness of nature and spirituality.

Regulations Deemed "Illegal":

However, in July 2023, a wave of change hit Hawaii as regulations surrounding indigenous midwifery practices were declared "illegal." This decision sent shockwaves through the community, as it directly challenged the cultural traditions and the well-being of birthing mothers. The state that prided itself on its principles of caring for the land, knowing God, and caring for its people seemed to be turning its back on its own deeply rooted values.

Disorientation and Advancing Polarity:

The consequences of these regulations are far-reaching, creating disorientation for birthing mothers and limiting the choices available to women in Hawaii, across all islands. With the enforcement of such regulations, a deep divide emerges within the population. On one side, there are those who trust in the design of the human body and believe in the wisdom that surrounds us and the wisdom found in passed-down indigenous midwifery practices. On the other side, there are those who rely on technocratic, industrialized medical interventions and the proverbial "mommy" medicine. This polarizing effect fractures the community and hampers the unity that was once the strength of Hawaiian culture.

Begin Within Collective:

It is crucial to recognize the profound impact of our Begin Within Collective Birth Center Initiative. This visionary movement advocates for the establishment of a birth center on Maui that embraces the inherent wisdom of traditional midwifery while providing a safe and nurturing space for birthing mothers. The Begin Within Collective’s philosophy centers around a community offering for Maui families that honors life by celebrating, supporting and encouraging the freedom and the sanctity of health. Through the commitment to  choice, evidence-based care, and community collaboration, we’re. Midwifing a revolutionary piece for maternity care in Hawaii, ensuring that all women have CHOICE and ACCESS to desired,  culturally appropriate and in-tact birth experiences.

The Spirit of Master Navigators:

We remember that Hawaiians were master navigators. Their spirit of resilience and determination to navigate through challenging waters will persist, regardless of the bigger agenda at play. The tradition of indigenous midwifery practices may face obstacles in Hawaii and around the world, but the essence of this natural birthing wisdom will endure. Such a testament to the profound connection between the people of this island and their rich cultural heritage.

The recent regulations on indigenous midwifery practices in Hawaii have sparked a battle for the preservation of ancient birthing wisdom. And ancient- future wisdom in general. The disorientation experienced by birthing mothers and the growing polarity in available choices demonstrate the urgent need for SOMETHING ELSE. For a deeper understanding and appreciation of cultural practices, for birthing mothers and for choice when it comes to raising the next generation. We must reconcile the historical traditions of this place with the demands of modern governance. Through awareness and collective action, the spirit of master navigators will prevail, and the choice to birth naturally, in the presence of indigenous birthing wisdom of Hawaii will find its rightful place in the hearts and minds of future generations.

X,

Molly

Founder of Begin Within Collective