I was particularly fascinated by Dixon’s work in Mexico, especially because midwifery (in general and in Mexico) is something I know very little about. I appreciated how Dixon immediately expressed her personal connection to the subject matter utilizing her birth story in the prologue of the book and blatantly stating that her opinion was biased later on in the introduction; as we discussed in class, I think this was a necessary statement and also a great way to building trust with the reader as well as painting the picture of what birth really looks like (her descriptions were incredibly vivid).
Initially, I was struck by Dixon’s exploration of modernity versus tradition, arguing that midwifery is not a practice stuck in the past nor has it forgotten its history. Dixon explains this by saying, “midwives…are working on modern bodies, in modern times, shaped by modern problems, and using the knowledge and resources made available by modern circuits,” but this does not imply a rejection of “older” methods or more traditional midwife practices (5). This contradiction yet partnership between modernity and tradition was illustrated clearly in CASA’s recruitment flyer stating their desire to recruit, “women who “are interested in the oldest and most futuristic career, professional midwifery.” (14)
Reading Dixon’s work, I was inspired by how these midwifery schools are changing the status quo of the role of women. Mariana from Mujeres Ailiadas says, “I want to change how women are treated and teach women about their rights and their bodies.” (17). This is a direct challenge to a patriarchal society, empowering women in a way that was likely to scare many. This empowerment is especially striking in contrast to the example of Irma’s experience as an indigenous woman left to give birth on the grass outside of the hospital. Dixon says that Irma’s story should shock us, but she is right that it does not; in this modern society we live in today, we still face much of the same historic discrimination and inequality (again bringing in themes of modernity vs tradition). However, it seems that midwives in Mexico provide a, perhaps unexpected, form of resistance to gender inequality and structural violence.
Furthermore, I was intrigued by the questions Dixon presents her readers in the introduction. And my first one for the class is: what is global health?(9) Do people agree with her definition? Is it the “view that determines the stakes and sets the course of action for countries, states, and localities to adopt and follow, with the aim of achieving universal outcomes—low maternal mortality ratios, clean water, access to contraception, etc.” ? (9) Additionally, can students who do not entirely reflect the backgrounds of their patients still provide appropriate, quality care?” (31) I think this is a question that is applicable beyond the reaches of just medicine. Dixon states that, “they can and must,” but I think there is much to be debated here. What do you all think? Overall, I had so many thoughts about this reading, and I really look forward to our class discussion.