Birth Justice Defenders

The Bronx Health Link, Inc. is THE BRONX HUB for the Birth Justice Defender initiative, which helps empower residents to advocate for respectful maternity care.

What is a Birth Justice Defender (BJD)?

Birth Justice Defenders are community residents who help their communities learn about their rights, and advocate for an environment where pregnant women feel supported in asserting those rights in order to have safe and dignified birth experiences. This initiative is a collaboration with NYCHDOMH.

For information on how you can become a Birth Justice Defender (BJD)

contact us at: info@bronxhealthlink.org or call: 929-287-5747

NYC Standards for Respectful Care at Birth

You have the right to respectful, safe and quality care during your birthing experience.

The NYC Standards for Respectful Care at Birth inform, educate and support people giving birth. These standards encourage you to know your rights and be an active decision-maker in your birthing experience. These standards are also helpful for providers, helping them respect and be aware of their patients’ rights during pregnancy, labor and childbirth.

The standards focus on six areas of respectful care: education, informed consent, decision making, quality of care, support and dignity and non-discrimination.

Special thanks to the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene for their funding and support.