Supporting the recognition of March 14, 2026, as "Black Midwives Day" and the longstanding and invaluable contributions of Black midwives to maternal and infant health in the United States.

Legislative bill overview

HRES 1120 is a symbolic House resolution designating March 14, 2026, as "Black Midwives Day" to honor the historical and ongoing contributions of Black midwives to maternal and infant health outcomes in the United States. The bill recognizes the professional expertise and cultural significance of Black midwives in American healthcare. This is a non-binding resolution with no fiscal implications or regulatory requirements.

Why is this important

Black midwives have historically provided essential maternal care, particularly to underserved communities, and continue to address persistent racial disparities in maternal and infant mortality rates. Recognition of this contribution acknowledges a often-overlooked healthcare workforce while potentially raising public awareness about midwifery as a profession and racial inequities in maternal health outcomes. Such designations can support advocacy efforts for policies affecting maternal health access and midwife licensing/regulation.

Potential points of contention

• Scope of recognition: Critics may question whether a single day adequately addresses systemic barriers Black midwives face, or view it as performative without accompanying policy changes or funding
• Midwifery regulation variance: The bill doesn't address the complex state-by-state licensing inconsistencies that affect midwife practice, leaving questions about substantive support versus symbolic gesture
• Committee referral logic: Referral to the Armed Services Committee appears unusual for a healthcare recognition resolution, suggesting possible procedural questions about the bill's framing or jurisdictional routing