On the night of May 29th, protests and rioting broke out in downtown Dallas just days after the death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police.
On the same night, an expecting mother was hard at work. Battling her own fears and doubt and questioning if she had the strength to keep going. Somewhere deep inside she knew she could and was determined to keep going. She went from saying, “I can’t do this!’ to listening to her body and moving a way they felt strong and powerful.
Just as the sun was rising the mood in the room shifted. All was calm and quiet as Anya rested between each contraction nearing the end of her long night of labor. Pushing calmly through each surge, with cries of joy, she brought her baby to her chest. SHE did it. With the support of her midwives and doula, she dug deep and found the strength she knew she had inside.
Just minutes later, surrounded by her family, her father prayed. He gave thanks — for this new life, for keeping his daughter safe through labor, and for bringing the family together. Then he prayed for his grandson’s life, not knowing what the future holds for him as he grows into a man. His prayer was sobering. As the riots and violence continue, this baby’s life is a sign of grace and a reminder of the long fight ahead.
Midwife: My Sister’s Keeper Birth & Midwifery Services
Doula: Royal La Mere Birth Services, Ebon’Nae Piggee
Birth Center: Gentle Beginnings Birth Center
Photographer: Lane B Photography, Elaine Baca