It’s true that we moms spend most of our time giving–time, love, presents. And while Mother’s Day is all about our kids thanking us for that giving, the tragic fact is that there are some mothers who never get the chance to give to their babies in the first place.
Amnesty International USA reports that every 90 seconds, a woman in the world dies from complications of pregnancy and childbirth. And, sadly, women in the United States aren’t exempt–giving birth here is now more dangerous than in 49 other countries. (Eek.)
And here’s what’s really striking: most of those deaths are avoidable. So we’ve put together 3 amazing organizations doing their part to take on this issue.
1. Through Amnesty International, get involved with writing Mother’s Day cards to lobby Congress and shine a light on healthy, safe childbirths as a human right. Sign up to host a card-writing party (there might already be one near you)
and let decision-makers know that you’re dedicated to fighting maternal mortality — and they should be, too. Just send Amnesty International an email and let them know how many sets of cards you need (each set contains six).
and let decision-makers know that you’re dedicated to fighting maternal mortality — and they should be, too. Just send Amnesty International an email and let them know how many sets of cards you need (each set contains six).
2. Check out the new Every Mother Counts campaign. This organization is tied to supermodel-turned-filmmaker, activist and mom Christy Turlington Burns (who yes, is still gorgeous) and her new documentary No Woman, No Cry. They have a ton of things you can do to help, whether it’s your time, your money, or simply your voice you have to give.
3. Be sure to take a look at CMP favorite The White Ribbon Alliance for Safe Motherhood and their wonderful Mothers Day Every Day campaign–another great way to donate and help raise awareness. We’re long-time fans of this brilliant, beautiful organization and the worldwide support they’ve garnered from women heads of state, captains of industry, and the Hollywood moms we loveOur kids are testament to the fact that, when moms give, it makes a difference. Just think about the kind of difference we can make when we give to other moms. -Lexi
Consider helping other moms on Mother’s Day by taking action against maternal mortality.
I also support my local branch of ICAN, the International Cesarean Awareness Network. My first birth was attempted natural and ended up a c-section due to breech. But thanks to ICAN, I found the midwife and doulas to help make my second birth a VBAC, or vaginal birth after cesarean. The c-section rate in our country is too high, and ICAN is working to educate moms for lower mortality rates, quicker recovery times, and healthier babies.
https://www.ican-online.org/
Nick Kristof’s column today had some similar ideas: https://www.nytimes.com/2011/05/05/opinion/05kristof.html
Thanks for the info, Deliah. Very interesting.