Our Story
The Birthing Place emerged as a response to the significant health disparities faced by people of color, particularly in the Bronx.
Our initial endeavor, the Womb Bus, has been dedicated to imparting education, providing essential resources, and offering guidance to some of the most underserved neighborhoods. Now, introducing Maryam—the next chapter in our journey.
Maryam is a three-office clinic with a dedicated community space. Here, we extend comprehensive reproductive care and wellness visits, while also providing a versatile space for gatherings, workshops, and more.
Behind The Name
The name "Maryam" became meaningful to us after reading "The Flower of Maryam" by homebirth midwife Krystina Derrickson. This flower, also known as the Rose of Jericho or resurrection plant, is a bundled, dry plant with various applications related to reproductive health.
When placed in water, the dried plant undergoes a transformation, awakening from a tightly woven ball of twigs into a soft, open woody flower. It resembles a placenta, which often sparks conversation among holistic birth workers, who love placentas.
The symbolism of Maryam and its global use in the context of reproductive health resonated with us, making it a fitting choice. The plant's transformative nature and cultural significance add depth to its connection with diverse traditional practices.
The Team
We are a collective of maternal health professionals based in New York City. Our team comprises midwives, physicians, doulas, educators, dedicated community members, and collaborative organizations, all united in our commitment to advancing the mission of The Birthing Place. As a BIPOC-led team, we bring a wealth of cultural understanding and linguistic diversity to our work, ensuring that our services are accessible and inclusive.
Our shared goal is to revolutionize maternity care by centering on marginalized communities. Through our collective efforts, we strive to reshape the maternal health landscape, creating a system that prioritizes the needs of those often underserved. By doing so, we aim to elevate the birthing experience for everyone, fostering an environment where every individual feels seen, heard, and supported on their unique journey to parenthood.
