Birthmother's Day

Birthmother's Day recognizes the biological mothers of adopted children. It is celebrated mainly by mothers who for whatever reason have given up their child to be raised by someone else.

Birthmother's Day occurs on the Saturday before Mother's Day. It is a memorable tribute to recognize the mothers who have chosen their children for adoption. This day also celebrates mothers who were born victimized and forced to adopt their children because they deserve a lot of recognition and support. It takes a special kind of strength to grow a person inside of you, get them safely out into the world, just to put them in the care of others. So, this is a day not only for adopters to remember their biological mother, but also for adoptive families to pay tribute to the women they have adopted.

History of Birthmother's Day

Birthmother's Day was first founded and celebrated in Seattle, Washington, in 1990, by Mary Jean Wolch-Marsh and a group of other women like her, who had to put their own children in order feed. They chose to celebrate the event on the Saturday before Mother's Day, which falls on May 12 of that year, as a way of showing solidarity and support for each other at a time when society is reeling to honor those who lost their lives who are raising children.

This in itself is iconic as it brings to the forefront women who are largely ignored by general society, despite their enormous sacrifices. So the main purpose behind this day is to honor women who can ordinarily go through a forgotten life - without the special recognition that the world gives to 'mothers' who are officially recognized.

Over the years, Birthmother's Day has evolved into a vehicle for educating others about adoption and the impact the day has on all stakeholders. Especially in the case of families with extensive adoption relationships, observing this day can help them appropriately acknowledge and express gratitude to their birth mother. It can also help bring mothers-to-be together through their shared experiences, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

At the end of the day, birth mothers play an important role in any form of adoption, so it's important for these women to have a day celebrated for their brave decision, regardless of the context they give. However, this date can also be a bit controversial, as it can touch a sensitive point when it comes to the relationship (or lack thereof) between adopted children and their biological mother. Therefore, it must be navigated carefully and always with the consent of those involved, especially adopted children.

Some reasons for Birthmother's Day being important

• It ensures visibility

While this may seem to some to be a bittersweet time of remembrance, the day brings a group of often marginalized women into the limelight and honors them for their bravery and strength in making such difficult decisions.

• It strengthens family ties

Let's face it - family in any context is messy. When it comes to adoption, it seems like a whole other level of mess. However, research shows that transparency between the adoptive family and the birth mother leads to a more holistic parent-child relationship.

• It sends a positive message about adoption

By honoring mothers who give birth, while also spreading awareness about the adoption and adoption process. This presents the idea of ​​open adoption in a positive light and can help educate and empower those who have yet to make a choice.

How to celebrate Birthmother's Day

• Spread love

If you know anyone who is planning to adopt or give up parenthood, or any support group, contact them and let them know you are interested. Organize a meeting like a night of music and poetry, just to honor these women. Use social media to spread the love using #BirthMothersDay.

• Send a photo and a thank you

In the case of a public adoption, let the biological mother of your child know how you feel about their sacrifice. Show them how their hope for their child is being realized through a picture and a kind word.

• Develop a long-term reminder

Life is all about innovation and growth. So, why don't you do something good for Mother Earth by planting a tree or plant of your choice, as a way to remember and honor the women who have nurtured life in their stomachs?