The recent announcement of the dissolution of the Midwives Alliance of North America (MANA) marks the end of an era for an organization that has been foundational in the establishment of the Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) credential. As we navigate through this period of mourning and adjustment, it is a poignant reminder of the vital role that MANA has played in the professional recognition of midwives and those dedicated to the art and science of community midwifery.
For many within our field, MANA was synonymous with the CPM credential, standing as a beacon of advocacy, education, and support for midwives across North America. However, for others, MANA represented something broader – a home for community midwives of all types, a place where individuals bound by a shared passion for community midwifery could come together. As we reflect on the complicated legacy of MANA, it's important to recognize the diversity of perspectives and experiences within our community. For some, MANA was primarily a gathering place that felt like coming home, and for others, it highlighted their lack of inclusion, power, and access within midwifery leadership. NACPM is grateful for the space MANA held for all midwives and hopes for something beautiful, safe, and filled with unity to grow in its place.
NACPM acknowledges the significant role MANA played in representing all community midwives. We understand the importance of navigating the U.S. midwifery landscape with care and intention. Although, as the professional organization for CPMs, our focus has always been on serving the interests of our members, we are aware of our place within a broader, diverse midwifery community. NACPM’s commitment to securing licensure and equitable reimbursement for CPMs in all 50 states and territories is unwavering. However, we are equally committed to recognizing the concerns and needs of traditional midwives, nurse-midwives, and certified midwives with empathy, knowledge, and understanding.
In our efforts to foster collaboration and understand differing perspectives, we actively engage with other allied organizations. These interactions aim to identify common ground, support mutual objectives, and enhance collective efforts. Building on this collaborative spirit, we are establishing a traditional midwifery advisory council. This initiative invites non-licensed and non-credentialed midwives seeking engagement with us to join ongoing conversations with our executive director. Through these efforts, NACPM strives to be in relationship with the entire midwifery community, recognizing the varied paths and experiences that enrich our profession. If you’re interested in participating in the first meeting, please email Cassaundra at executivedirector@nacpm.org.
In this moment of change, we are called upon to be in relationship with one another, to bridge our differences, and to remember the shared passion that unites us. In the spirit of solidarity, NACPM is happy to offer free membership in any of our membership categories to any active MANA member who is not an active NACPM member at the time of their dissolution through the end of 2023. Please remember we always offer free membership to BIPOC and LGBTQIA2+ individuals. For free memberships, please reach out to Nasima Pfaffl at nasima@nacpm.org.
In solidarity,
NACPM Board of Directors