Midwifery & Birthing Centre

The Métis Nation–Saskatchewan (MN–S) Midwifery and Birthing Centre Project is a long-term, citizen-driven initiative grounded in the vision of restoring and advancing culturally relevant, Métis-specific midwifery care in Saskatchewan. Originating as a two-year research initiative, the project was developed to build foundational knowledge and capacity for Métis-led family health and midwifery services. Following its initial success, the project has secured five additional years of funding to implement its findings and bring the vision of a Métis-led birthing centre to life. 

The first phase of the project included several key areas of research: 

• A Literature Review of Métis maternal and family health, and the history and practice of Indigenous midwifery in Canada, offering critical context for culturally specific care.
• A Legislative Review of provincial, national, and international policies affecting Indigenous midwifery and Métis health sovereignty, including regulatory frameworks and barriers to practice.
• A Curriculum Review of Canadian midwifery education and training programs, delivery models, and accreditation pathways, to inform the creation of a Métis-specific educational program.
• An Environmental Scan of existing midwifery and birthing centres across Canada, with analysis of operational models, clinical structures, and SWOT findings.
• A Midwifery and Birthing Centre Business Model & Feasibility Analysis, assessing the logistical, financial, and community viability of a dedicated centre.
• A Participatory Action Research (PAR) Project, “Lii Faam di Fleur,” designed and led by Métis mothers with lived experience, which prioritized community consultation through citizen interviews, surveys, and a final engagement session with families from regions across Saskatchewan to ensure the centre’s design and future services are truly informed by Métis voices. 

Building on these research outcomes, the MN–S is currently developing a Métis-specific midwifery education and training program and is pursuing formal recognition from the Saskatchewan College of Midwives. In partnership with the College, MN–S has co-submitted a Midwifery Amendment Act. This proposed legislation seeks to formally recognize Indigenous midwifery practice and accredit community-based Indigenous midwifery education programs within the provincial regulatory system — a critical step toward Indigenous health sovereignty and equitable access to care. 

Looking ahead, the Midwifery and Birthing Centre will serve as a place of cultural safety, health, and renewal for Métis families. In addition to providing safe, community-based birthing services, the centre will offer programming in perinatal education, reproductive and family health, mental wellness, transitional housing, nutrition, and traditional knowledge — including land-based medicine and ceremony. Every element of the centre is designed to reflect and uphold Métis values, and ways of knowing and being.  

Our vision is to create a space where Métis families can welcome new life in a facility that is physically, emotionally, spiritually, and culturally safe. We are committed to ensuring that Métis families across the province have access to care that reflects lived experiences, honours traditions, and supports the futures of Métis communities. This vision extends beyond the centre itself; it includes a full spectrum of wraparound services for Métis families, providing continuity of care through culturally relevant programming and resources, such as education & skills training, family housing, supports & advocacy, and access to a network of professionals grounded in Métis traditions and ceremony.

Midwifery & Birthing Centre Survey

MN–S is now conducting a community-led research project to gather perspectives on the birthing experiences of Métis citizens. This research will help shape the future MN–S Midwifery & Birthing Center, ensuring it provides culturally safe and relevant care. 

We invite Métis citizens to share their stories through a survey, which will guide the development of this important initiative. 

*all participants will have the option to be entered in to win a $500 gift card

SURVEY