Film Preview + Conversation on Indigenous Maternal Health

Join us for an evening of film and conversation exploring Indigenous approaches to birth, maternal health, and reproductive sovereignty.

The event will feature a keynote from Nicolle Arthun, a Diné (Navajo) midwife and founder of the Changing Woman Initiative, an Indigenous-led birth center and training organization dedicated to restoring traditional midwifery and community-based systems of care. Nicolle also works with tribal leaders and policymakers and is currently engaged in policy work on Capitol Hill advancing legislation that supports Native maternal health and expands opportunities for Indigenous midwives.

Nicolle will share insights from her research and advocacy on the current state of Indigenous maternal health and the growing movement for Indigenous birth sovereignty—efforts led by communities to restore culturally grounded birth practices and expand Indigenous autonomy in pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care. She will also discuss how Indigenous-led birthwork and organizing are shaping policy strategies and systems change at the tribal, state, and federal levels.

The evening will also include a preview from the forthcoming feature documentary , directed by Brit Hensel and produced by Taylor Hensel, award-winning filmmakers and citizens of the Cherokee Nation. The film follows Indigenous mothers, families, and birth workers working to restore cultural knowledge and community-centered birth practices.

Nicolle is also featured in the film. Following the screening, she will join the filmmakers for a conversation about Indigenous midwifery, maternal health, and reproductive sovereignty in Indian Country and here in Tulsa.

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Host or Publisher Tuya Gadu Productions + Artist Creative Fund