Sister Walks: First Walk
April 17, 2026 @ 11:45 am - 1:00 pm
Events Location:
100 John F Shelley DriveSan Francisco, CA 94134 United States
Birth Justice is a movement that believes when birthing people recognize their innate power to make the best health decisions for themselves and their families during all stages of the pregnancy, birth, and the post-birth period, that power will have a transformational impact on their family and community.
The long history of trauma and reproductive oppression that Black communities and other underserved groups have experienced is the constant force that drives and shapes the Birth Justice movement. To challenge systems of oppression, such as racism and sexism in reproductive care, Birth Justice advocates for culturally-appropriate, person-centered care while challenging disrespectful care. It also supports the sharing of knowledge amongst communities and improves access to breastfeeding support and traditional birth-workers, such as midwives and doulas.
This definition is inspired by the work of Black Women’s Birth Justice, Southern Birth Justice and SisterSong.
All births should be just births.
Driven by a commitment to birth justice, the UCSF Center for Birth Justice works across several core areas.
Our Research Core catalyzes research to improve maternal and infant health for Black women and birthing people through an anti-racist and community-partnered approach. We investigate systemic factors and promote effective interventions, ensuring our research is directly relevant to impacted communities.
Our Community Partnership Core centers on authentically engaging with individuals and organizations within communities most affected by birth inequities. We strive to understand real-world experiences and empower communities to be at the forefront of developing solutions. Guided by the principle of “Nothing About Us Without Us,” we build bridges and foster collaboration.
The Policy & Advocacy Core advances high-priority policy changes at institutional, local, state, and national levels to improve racial and ethnic maternal and infant health equity. Informed by community voices, we conduct research, build coalitions, and advocate for systemic change.
The center offers expertise and support to affiliated individuals and organizations working to advance birth justice. This includes strategic advice, consultation, and hands-on support across communications, design, operations, community engagement, and research and evaluation. Our approach is rooted in mutual aid and shared learning.
As a Black mother, my deep and personal commitment to dismantling systemic racism in maternal and infant health is fueled by the hope that Black families can and will thrive during their birth journeys. Guided by “Nothing About Us Without Us,” we are not just working collaboratively to amplify the inherent strengths and wisdom within our communities. Through innovative, anti-racist research conducted in partnership with those most impacted, and by advocating for evidence-based policy changes, we are actively building pathways towards safe and equitable birth experiences. Our dedication is unwavering, and together, we will create a future where birth justice is a reality.
Executive Director
