We all share the responsibility for equity and diversity. Equity and diversity go beyond numbers and access. They are reflected in the core values held by our organization and our board.

We embrace all childbearing families, foster a culture of inclusion, and engage all individuals. We are available for education and support for all people. We especially seek to advance services to materno-toxic areas, places where mothers and families suffer the greatest risk of an adverse birth outcome. We have resources to guide, train, and support our members in fostering this value and increasing the diversity of our educators. We are committed to encouraging diverse expertise and cultural knowledge. We recognize that our members are in the unique position to bridge the gap between public and private sectors that serve pregnant and postpartum families in communities around the world.

Compassionate birth professionals are aware of and accept a variety of family configurations. ICEA recognizes and supports the unique treasure all families are in this diverse world. We acknowledge heterosexual and single parent families, blended families, lesbian, gay, transgender, and gender-queer families. Although ICEA strives to use gender inclusive language as much as possible, the words “woman” or “mother” may be included. Despite the occasional use of these terms we mean no disrespect to individuals or families who do not identify with those labels.

One of the ways ICEA is promoting equity and diversity is through our partnership with the National Perinatal Task Force.