WHEREAS, midwives are essential, highly educated healthcare professionals who provide evidence-based, person-centered care before, during, and after childbirth, and their care is associated with improved health outcomes for both women and newborns; and

WHEREAS, midwives are trained professionals who collaborate with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare providers to ensure safe, respectful, and holistic care; and

WHEREAS, Virginia recognizes the urgent need to address maternal health disparities, particularly among Black, Indigenous, Hispanic, and rural communities, and midwifery care is proven to reduce these disparities and increase quality care in maternal health; and

WHEREAS, midwives are key contributors not only in clinical practice, but also in shaping health policy, conducting research, educating future healthcare providers, and improving health systems at local, state, and national levels; and

WHEREAS, midwives play a vital role in educating families, supporting maternal mental health, and empowering individuals to make informed choices about their care; and

WHEREAS, the theme of National Midwifery Week 2025, “Midwives at Every Table: Practice, Policy & Research,” calls attention to the importance of including midwives in decision-making roles in hospitals, public health departments, academic institutions, and government agencies; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Virginia joins healthcare advocates, professional organizations, and communities in celebrating and uplifting midwives for their invaluable contributions to the health and well-being of families across the Commonwealth;

 NOW, THEREFORE, I, Glenn Youngkin, do hereby recognize October 5–11, 2025, as MIDWIFERY WEEK in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.