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Bill

Bill

SJ 56

Black Midwives Day.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mamie Locke

Virginia establishes an official Black Midwives Day to honor the historical and ongoing contributions of Black midwives to maternal healthcare and community health.

Bill text as passed Senate and House (SJ56ER)
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Bill Summary · SJ 56

Legislative bill overview

SJ 56 establishes an official state recognition day for Black Midwives Day in Virginia. The bill designates a specific day to honor the historical and contemporary contributions of Black midwives to maternal health and community care.

Why is this important

Black midwives have played a critical role in providing maternal and reproductive healthcare, particularly in underserved communities throughout U.S. history and continuing today. Official recognition can raise awareness about this often-overlooked profession and its ongoing significance in addressing maternal health disparities.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of recognition: Whether a symbolic designation day meaningfully addresses systemic barriers Black midwives face in licensure, regulation, and integration into healthcare systems
  • Specificity of date: Questions about which date is chosen and whether it holds particular historical significance to the community
  • Resource allocation: Debate over whether resources should be directed toward actual policy changes supporting midwifery access rather than ceremonial recognition

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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