Ep 42: A Conversation on Birthing Justice for Black Women with Monique Matthews, Award-Winning Filmmaker and Writer

Monique matthews

Writer and Filmmaker; Director and Co-Writer of “Birthing Justice”

Today’s episode features writer and filmmaker Monique Matthews. Monique is the co-writer and director of the feature length documentary, “Birthing Justice.”

In the United States, Black women are three to five times more likely to die from health complications during birth. This film explores the role of racism and inequities within our healthcare system that endanger Black women during this particularly critical moment in our lives. The film also tells the stories and highlights the voices of the people and the organizations that are fighting for systemic change to ensure the best birthing practices for all women at hospitals across the country.

Listen as we discuss the importance of Black women trusting our own voices as we navigate the healthcare system, the role of doulas, midwives, doctors and more in addressing this epidemic, what success looks like in action at Martin Luther King Jr. Community Hospital in South LA, and why Monique believes we must also celebrate the joy in the Black birthing experience on the journey to justice.

To learn more about Monique Matthews:

To view Birthing Justice:

Keep the conversation going with Black Women Talk Work:

Myriha Burce