Ujima (oo-JEE-mah) is a Kwanzaa principle that means collective work and responsibility, to build and maintain our community together.
About Us
Ujima Maternity Network, Inc. is a 501(c)3 non profit organization established to address the Black Maternal and Infant health crisis in the state of Arkansas experienced by Black (expectant) mothers. Black birth workers and maternal advocates are dedicated to making positive impacts within the birthing community to help ensure Black mothers survive and thrive during their pregnancy, birth and postpartum experiences with advocacy, support and safety.
UMN was founded in 2018 on the third day of Kwanzaa, Ujima, and adopted the principle of doing collective work to build and maintain a healthy community. In 2020 Ujima Maternity Network, Inc. officially became a 501(c)3 non profit organization in the state of Arkansas. Our goal is to build our community with skilled birth workers, including Black midwives, doulas, and lactation consultants throughout the state of Arkansas. We believe that expanding our professional network in the state will aid in the reduction of Black maternal and infant mortality in the state of Arkansas.
the vision
The Vision of
Ujima Maternity Network, Inc. is to reduce the maternal morbidity and mortality in Arkansas by reclaiming birth autonomy for women of color through collective work and responsibility of the healthcare system, doulas & midwives of color, and the communities most impacted by birth and birth related mortalities. |