In the Lolaico community, located in Presidente Hayes, Chaco, there was a moment of connection and cultural revaluation during the Intercultural Meeting of Traditional Midwives. This significant event, facilitated by the 2024 Culture Funds, brought together more than 18 communities from the Enxet Sur, Angaité and Sanapaná peoples in a meeting of ancestral knowledge.
From time immemorial, traditional midwives have played a crucial role in their communities, passing on their knowledge and skills from generation to generation. This meeting not only served to share about his trade, but to revalue it, especially after the declaration of the Traditional Midwifery as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2023. Resolution 224/2023, promoted by the National Secretariat for Culture, formalised this recognition, highlighting the importance of preserving and valuing these ancestral practices.
Traditional midwifery has been knowledge transmitted orally by generations, based on empirical practices and knowledge, which varies according to social, cultural and natural contexts. Despite different local contexts, midwives play a crucial role in birth care and support, underlining the adaptability and relevance of this trade throughout history and in various cultures.
Teresita Cabrera, cultural manager who accompanies these communities, said that the event was organised at the request of the midwives: “The work carried out at the request of the midwives is essential so that they can know the scope of the resolution, a crucial legal document for them and for the profession of empirical midwifery. This recognition allows them to continue transmitting from generation to generation without fear, safeguarding lives and customs.”
Cabrera also highlighted the logistical effort of the midwives, who must travel long distances on motorcycles to offer their services to pregnant women in difficult conditions, underlining the importance of their work in the community.
Guillermina Espínola, a midwife with 31 years of experience, proudly expressed what it means to her and her community of midwifes: “We have never been recognised before as now. This meeting allows us to share our experiences, and remember the importance of what we do for our community.” Her testimony reflects the commitment and dedication of these women who, despite adversities, continue to preserve vital knowledge for the well-being of their peoples.
The Intercultural Meeting also strengthened ties between the Enxet, Angaite and Sanapaná communities. This event is a testament to the love these women have for their community, ensuring that their ancestral knowledge remains alive for future generations.
this is very enlightening