Who We Are
The Postpartum Writing Collective connects writers during the prenatal and postpartum stages of life through intimate, creative writing groups. We strive to support individuals with connection, understanding, and encouragement.
We welcome all maternal voices, of all writing levels, while honoring their identities and individuality through a culture of acceptance.
One of our goals by the end of 2023 is to extend discounted classes to communities with limited access to prenatal/postpartum support.
A note on inclusion: We recognize and acknowledge the inequity that is systemic within prenatal/postpartum care in the United States, as well as in the writing and publishing industry. Statistics reveal painful racial and ethnic disparities in maternal deaths. Research also shows severe inequity in maternal health for disabled individuals. A key goal of the Postpartum Writing Collective is to find ways to reach communities with limited access to prenatal/postpartum support.
A note of gratitude: We draw inspiration from the Program for Early Parent Support (PEPS) founded in 1983, a program Cathie took part in upon the birth of both her children. This program, along with her prenatal centering group provided by her midwife team, completely transformed her perspective on the early-parenthood experience. She is indebted to all who showed her support and kindness.
“All this to say, what should a woman fight for? Given her limited resources, limited time and energy and inspiration, what is worth fighting for? Is it art? In the grand scheme of things, it sometimes seems so pointless, even selfish. To force one’s point of view on the world—who really needs it, especially when a child needs a mother so immediately?
I don’t have any answers other than that art seems essential, as essential as mothering. In order to be a self, it is essential. I should perhaps cease being a person without it.
Is that enough of a reason, that it matters to me?”
— Rachel Yoder, Nightbitch
kindred spirits kindling creativity.
kindred spirits kindling creativity.
kindred / adj / ˈkindrəd: of having similar belief, attitude, or feeling.
kindling / noun / ˈkin(d)liNG: easily combustible small sticks or twigs used for starting a fire.