Policy & Advocacy

Episode Overview

Michelle Grimsley Shindano, the Director of Public Policy at the Florida Alliance of Planned Parenthood Affiliates, and Democratic Leader Fentrice Driskell of the Florida House of Representatives (District 67), join us for another special edition episode of birthincolor in honor of Black History Month.

Policy is imperative to developing a structurally sound framework that promotes optimal maternal health outcomes. In our discussion, we focus on understanding implications of upcoming policy changes, as well as identify ways to create lasting change through legislation. We also reflect on the impacts of existing policies and envision future policies that seek to ultimately improve the health outcomes for Black mommas, babies and families.

About birthincolor

birthincolor is a virtual learning miniseries created by the Florida Black Maternal Health Initiative at the University of South Florida College of Public Health. This project is supported by funding from the HealtheVoices Impact Fund and Johnson & Johnson. 

Referenced Literature

Alam, S., Nandi, U., Scarborough, S., McNeill, E., Callison, K., Shi, L., & Gamble, A. (2024). Maternal Health Legislation Enacted in Three Southeastern States in the United States Between 2018-2023: Policy Surveillance. Journal of the Mississippi State Medical Association, 65(5-6).

Buchbinder, M., & Sabbath, E. L. (2025). Reproductive Healthcare After Dobbs: Rethinking Obstetric Harm in the United States. Medical Anthropology, 44(1), 6-21.

Recommended Citation 

Fross, M. (Host), Wilson, R. (Cohost), Driskell, F. (Guest) & Grimsley Shindano, M. (Guest). (2025, February 28). Policy & Advocacy (Ep. 4) [Audio podcast episode]. In birthincolor. DJ Brightlight Productions. 

More Information

Learn More: Florida Black Maternal Health Initiative 

Support Our Work: Donate to the Florida Black Maternal Health Initiative