Our Community Guidelines

Creating an Inclusive and Supportive Online Space

Welcome to JustBirth Space's (JBS) online community! We are committed to providing a free, virtual space for perinatal support during pregnancy, labor and birth, and postpartum. Our services are rooted in reproductive justice and aim to center the experiences of BIPOC individuals, affirm LGBTQIA2+ communities, and support all women, birthing people, and families on their journeys. 

To ensure that our online space reflects our four pillars of Antiracism, Accountability, Inclusion, and Equity, we have established the following community guidelines:

Respect and Dignity:

Treat all community members with respect, kindness, and dignity. We celebrate the diverse experiences, identities, and backgrounds of our JBS community members. Engage in conversations and discussions with empathy and an open mind, fostering an environment that embraces differences and promotes inclusivity.

Antiracism and Equity:

We actively work to dismantle systemic racism and strive for equity. Engage in discussions that challenge racism, discrimination, and bias. Be mindful of your own biases and work towards continuous learning and growth. Amplify the voices of marginalized communities and avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

LGBTQIA2+ Affirmation:

At JBS we affirm and support the LGBTQIA2+ community. Use inclusive language and respect everyone's gender identity and sexual orientation. Refrain from engaging in homophobia, transphobia, or any form of discrimination against LGBTQIA2+ individuals. Foster an environment that feels safe and welcoming for all.

Inclusive Language and Representation:

Use language that is inclusive and respects everyone's identities and experiences. Do not use derogatory language, slurs, or offensive terms. Promote representation by acknowledging and including diverse perspectives, including those of BIPOC and LGBTQIA2+ individuals and other marginalized groups.

No Observations:

Building trust is a core value of our Model of Care and we do not want our JBS community members to feel observed while in our spaces. We don’t allow birthworkers to observe in our offerings unless you are attending with a client. Observations involve the presence of individuals who are not directly involved in the group but are present to learn or gain experience. While we value the dedication to professional development and learning, our Community Connect support groups and classes are specifically designed for individuals who are seeking support and sharing their unique journeys.

No Solicitation:

Our community is not a platform for solicitation or sales of any kind. Please refrain from using the space to promote or advertise products, services, or events unrelated to the mission and values of our birth justice organization.

Personal Boundaries and Consent:

Respect the personal boundaries and consent of others. Do not share or request personal information without permission. Refrain from engaging in any form of harassment, stalking, or bullying. Do not send private messages or publicly post advertisements or sales pitches to individuals, or to our JBS community as a whole. Prioritize helping to create a space where individuals feel safe and comfortable sharing their experiences.

Focus on Support:

We encourage community members to focus on providing and receiving support, sharing experiences, and engaging in discussions related to birth justice, reproductive health, pregnancy, parenting, and related topics. This helps us to maintain an environment that prioritizes connection, learning, and empowerment.

Content Moderation:

Our platform is moderated to maintain the integrity and safety of our community. JBS Connectors/Moderators have the authority to address and/or remove content (and individuals) that violate these guidelines or undermine the inclusivity of the space.

Respect Participant Privacy:

We prioritize the trust and confidentiality within our Community Connect support groups and classes. All community members, regardless of their gender identity, ability, income, or background have the right to engage in open and honest discussions without the presence of observers or fear of their private information being shared. Do not share personal stories, photos, or information without explicit consent. This ensures a safe and comfortable environment for sharing personal experiences.

Reporting Violations:

If you come across any violations of these guidelines or witness behavior that makes you uncomfortable or unsafe, please report it to our JBS Connectors/Moderators. We rely on the vigilance of our community members to maintain a respectful and inclusive environment.

Continuous Learning and Accountability:

Embrace a mindset of continuous learning, growth, and accountability. Be open to feedback and respectful discussions that challenge your own biases and assumptions. Strive to educate yourself and others about reproductive justice and related topics.

By participating in our online community, you agree to abide by these guidelines and contribute to the creation of a safe, inclusive, and supportive space. 

Please note that these guidelines may be updated periodically as we learn and grow together as a community.