Synopsis:
Mparntwe (Alice Springs) midwife Cherisse Buzzacott has achieved a number of firsts. She was first in her family to graduate from university, and the first ever graduate of the Australian Catholic University’s Bachelor of Midwifery Indigenous course. To Cherisse, though, firsts are about opening the door for others. She’s passionate about supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander midwives and health workers, and advocating for birthing on Country and culturally safe care for women in her community and from Central Australia. [Content warning: This episode contains conversations about miscarriage and stillbirth.]

Notes:
Rhodanthe Lipsett Indigenous Midwifery Charitable Trust
https://indigenousmidwives.org.au/about-us/our-board/cherisse-buzzacott/

I said ‘I’m in labour’ but no one listened
https://indigenousx.com.au/i-said-im-in-labour-but-no-one-listened/

I supported other women to have babies but faced my own battle alonehttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/may/13/i-supported-other-women-to-have-babies-but-faced-my-own-battle-alone

Music in this episode includes ‘Salientia’ by REW<<, ‘Prevailing Truths’ by Ketsa, ‘Groove’ by Xylo-Ziko and ‘Can We Be Friends’ by Lobo Loco, used under a Creative Commons license from Free Music Archive.

Birthing and Justice is written and produced by Dr Ruth De Souza on the traditional and unceded lands of the Boon Wurrung people of the Kulin Nations. Sound editing by Olivia Smith.