In Melbourne today over 200 women, men and children gathered on the steps of Nicola Roxon's (the federal minister for health) office to protest legislation that stands to outlaw homebirth midwifery.A couple of midwives (as well as a male midwife) spoke about the importance of homebirth, birth choice and safety. Two mothers shared their personal birth stories, one had planned a homebirth for her first child that resulted in a hospital transfer for a caesarean. She began her story by stating "I am the what if something goes wrong at a homebirth story". She went on to share that her second child was born peacefully at home after a completely uncomplicated labour, supported by a midwife. Members of the crowd shouted out at the end of her story, saying that they had the same story.
Another mother shared that the first couple of her seven children were born in hospital and the rest at home. She stated that she knew so totally that homebirth was right for her family that in one case she was willing to "have an oops in the car" on the way to hospital rather than actually attempt to make it there in time.
A father stepped up, toddler in his arms and announced that just two days ago his wife birthed their son at home. He shared his joy at being part of that experience and the support his family received from a midwife in private practice.
Another mother shared that the first couple of her seven children were born in hospital and the rest at home. She stated that she knew so totally that homebirth was right for her family that in one case she was willing to "have an oops in the car" on the way to hospital rather than actually attempt to make it there in time.
A father stepped up, toddler in his arms and announced that just two days ago his wife birthed their son at home. He shared his joy at being part of that experience and the support his family received from a midwife in private practice.
Senator Steven Fielding also spoke. Interestingly he spoke about "women's rights" though his party "Family First" have never been interested in women's rights when it comes to abortion or equality for lesbian couples. I confess to getting a kick out of breastfeeding my daughter while (literally) rubbing shoulders with the conservative politician.
After the speeches the crowd learned some of the words to the protest song "Song For Nicola Roxon" and sang together. At the end of the formal part of the rally protesters were invited to leave calling cards with messages for Nicola Roxon, who steered clear of the building and later refused to comment on the rally or the proposed legislation when contacted by the media.
Channel 7 attended the rally and a short segment appeared on the news at 6pm. The Age also published an article about the rally, though sadly the article focused on what Senator Fielding had to say rather than what the midwives and homebirthing women had to say.
When the rally was finished homebirthing families chatted amongst themselves, making new friends and catching up with the old ones. There was an exciting energy in the atmosphere and a fabulous sense of community amongst the crowd.
One thing is certain, momentum is gathering. Homebirth activists are not a small or quiet group. Today was just a primer for the mother of all rallies set to take place in less than a month on the steps of federal parliament. If Melbourne can gather over 200 mothers, fathers and children on short notice for this cause, imagine what a mighty crowd must be headed to Canberra come September!
After the speeches the crowd learned some of the words to the protest song "Song For Nicola Roxon" and sang together. At the end of the formal part of the rally protesters were invited to leave calling cards with messages for Nicola Roxon, who steered clear of the building and later refused to comment on the rally or the proposed legislation when contacted by the media.
Channel 7 attended the rally and a short segment appeared on the news at 6pm. The Age also published an article about the rally, though sadly the article focused on what Senator Fielding had to say rather than what the midwives and homebirthing women had to say.
When the rally was finished homebirthing families chatted amongst themselves, making new friends and catching up with the old ones. There was an exciting energy in the atmosphere and a fabulous sense of community amongst the crowd.
One thing is certain, momentum is gathering. Homebirth activists are not a small or quiet group. Today was just a primer for the mother of all rallies set to take place in less than a month on the steps of federal parliament. If Melbourne can gather over 200 mothers, fathers and children on short notice for this cause, imagine what a mighty crowd must be headed to Canberra come September!
More on the rally at:
Village Midwife
Midwives in Private Practice
1 comments:
Look at all those beautiful faces. What an awesome effort. I missed out because one of my clients was in early labour - but great to see the photos and i can't wait for Canberra!
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