Re-imagining Our Futures: birthing

We are addressing the critical need for culturally safe healthcare and birthing practices for First Nations women, focusing on the importance of reclaiming traditional birthing sovereignty. Our film highlights the gaps in western medical systems that fail to adequately support the cultural, spiritual, and emotional needs of First Nations mothers, families, and communities, and advocates for systemic change to prioritize their health, wellbeing, and traditions in pregnancy and birthing.

Re-imagining Our Futures: birthing envisions a world where First Nations women reclaim sovereignty over birthing practices, grounded in cultural traditions and ancestral strength. By inspiring communities to reconnect with Country, honor traditional knowledge, and challenge systemic barriers, we aim to create meaningful change—empowering women, influencing policy, and fostering a future where cultural and health sovereignty are celebrated and protected.

Through our film featuring Kalinda (Gal) Palmer, we aim to inspire a re-imagining of a future where traditional birthing practices and ceremonies are not only recognized but freely practiced alongside western medical systems. The completed film highlights the cultural, spiritual, and emotional significance of these practices for First Nations mothers, caregivers, families, and babies. By sharing this powerful story, we hope to raise awareness, spark dialogue, and drive action towards supporting initiatives like Birthing on Country.

Our goal is to encourage greater investment in culturally safe and centered birthing programs, influence policy to better accommodate these practices, and empower First Nations women to reclaim sovereignty over birthing traditions. The film serves as a catalyst for advocacy, collaboration, and education, connecting audiences to the urgent need for systemic change while celebrating the strength and resilience of First Nations communities.

Our key creative team is made up of First Nations women from the Kimberley region, which has enabled us to approach this project with cultural integrity and authenticity. Our strong relationships within the community, alongside ongoing consultation with Elders, traditional healers, and local families, have provided meaningful access and insight into the cultural practices and challenges explored in the film.

Our calls to action for audiences include:
– Supporting and advocating for culturally safe birthing programs, such as Birthing on Country initiatives, through donations, partnerships, or volunteering with aligned organizations.
– Engaging in conversations about the importance of traditional birthing practices and their role in empowering First Nations women and communities.
– Encouraging healthcare professionals and policy-makers to prioritize and implement culturally safe and centered practices in maternal healthcare.
– Sharing the film and its message to amplify awareness and inspire broader support for systemic change in maternal healthcare for First Nations women.
These actions aim to drive tangible support and advocacy for birthing sovereignty and culturally safe practices