A web-based resource for promoting equity in midwifery education and training: Towards meaningful diversity and inclusion

Midwifery. 2018 Jun;61:70-73. doi: 10.1016/j.midw.2018.02.008. Epub 2018 Feb 15.

Abstract

Increasing the midwifery workforce requires that aspiring midwives complete education and training, but structural racism and microaggressions impact the lives of underrepresented midwifery students and apprentices, adding stressors and disparities to the usual demanding educational challenges. In order to be resilient, students rely on preceptors, faculty, administrators and institutions to promote equity. Equity-focused learning environments improve student experiences and success rates, and better prepare all students to provide culturally humble and sensitive care to diverse childbearing persons and other essential competencies outlined by the International Confederation of Midwives. The comprehensive web-based resource, www.equitymidwifery.org, is designed to support midwifery educators in promoting equity and social justice in midwifery education and training. The website highlights examples and provides tools including original webinar content and encourages visitors to attend virtual strategy and collaboration calls. It offers a model of continuous professional development that is easily accessible.

Keywords: Cultural competency; Diversity; Equity; Inclusion; Midwifery education; Social justice.

MeSH terms

  • Cultural Diversity*
  • Education, Nursing, Baccalaureate / methods
  • Humans
  • Internet
  • Midwifery / education*
  • Personnel Selection / methods*
  • Personnel Selection / statistics & numerical data
  • Social Justice
  • Workforce