Honouring Birth in Communities – Spirit of Birth
Spirit of Birth is an 8-episode documentary series on APTN Lumi, directed by Rebeka Tabobondung of the Wasauksing First Nation.
The series explores the revival of traditional birth practices across Indigenous communities, from Toronto to Chisasibi, including Six Nations, Nipissing, Kehewin Cree, and Wasauksing. Three episodes take place in Chisasibi, where the return of traditional knowledge is particularly visible. Through conversations with midwives, elders, and families, each episode highlights local initiatives that bring cultural, spiritual, and community-centered care back to the experience of birth.
Inspired by Rebeka’s own journey into motherhood, Spirit of Birth showcases a movement that blends ancestral traditions with modern approaches, supporting communities in reclaiming their cultural identity. The series also emphasizes passing this knowledge on to future generations, celebrating birth as a moment deeply connected to culture, land, and family.
Episode highlights:
- Episode 2: Brianna’s birth story evolves with midwife Emma’s support. Rebeka visits Chisasibi, where traditional birth knowledge is returning home through local services and visionaries.
- Episode 3: In Chisasibi, Edith gives birth to her fourth child with midwives’ care. Shannon, an aspiring midwife from Chisasibi, trains 1,200 km away in Toronto, part of the community’s plan for a new midwifery education program.
- Episode 4: Hannah Bearskin recounts giving birth in a michuap (teepee). The Cree community faces climate challenges, with midwifery services leading evacuations during forest fires.
- Episode 5: Shannon reunites her family in Chisasibi for summer. Rebeka visits the Nipissing First Nation midwifery practice, founded by a mother-daughter team, and attends a national midwifery gathering.
📺 Available on APTN Lumi
For more information: rezolutionpictures.com/projects/spiritofbirth
Follow Spirit of Birth on Facebook @spiritofbirth and Instagram @spiritofbirthtv
