Critical Conversations: A Health Care & Sciences Anti-Oppression Podcast

In this episode, we had the pleasure of chatting with Cheyenne Scarlett, who recently wrote on the childbirth experiences of Black women in the Greater Toronto Area. Her research highlights themes of anti-Black microaggressions and other forms of anti-Black racism that emerged from her interviews with 30 Black mothers. Her research also captured Black mothers’ resilience, and factors which facilitated a positive birthing experience. She has been working with families as well as current and future health care providers to support change in maternity care. Be sure to check out Cheyenne’s Facebook and Instagram @Black.Births.of.Toronto to learn more about her work

Timeline :

06.00 : Introduction to Cheyenne

18.00 : Microaggressions

27.00 : Rebuilding trust

34.00 : Midwifery

53.00 : Host Reflections

*Note that gender and sex are not binaries: some trans men, gender non binary people, and intersex people also give birth, and they also deserve positive birthing experiences. However, today we will focus on the experience of the Black women that engaged in Cheyenne’s study. 

This podcast is run by students in the U of T Temerty Faculty of Medicine Learner Equity Action and Discussion (or LEAD) committee, which is composed of learners who are interested in taking action on anti-oppression and social justice issues.