Acknowledgments -- Notes on research and activism -- Introduction: Pushing for midwives -- Histories of struggle -- The birth of consumer activism for midwives -- Midwives in Virginia -- Mothers in the legislature -- "I'm not really politically active, but ..." -- Divisive strategies -- Epilogue: Beyond consumer rights -- Notes
Summary
Presents a history of women's reproductive rights activism in the U.S. and provides an examination of contemporary organizing strategies for reproductive rights in an era increasingly driven by "consumer rights." By framing the midwifery struggle through a political economic perspective on reproductive rights, Craven offers an in-depth look at the strategies, successes, and challenges facing midwifery activists in Virginia. Craven examines how decades-old race and class prejudices against midwives continue to impact opposition to - as well as divisions within - women's contemporary legislative efforts for midwives. She argues that this recognition is vital for both scholars and activists if they hope to maintain their commitment to expanding reproductive rights for all women. --From publisher description
