Five mothers – Clemency Burton-Hill, Clemmie Telford, Candice Brathwaite, Rebecca Schiller and Helen Thorn – exchanged their experiences of pregnancy, childbirth and beyond, discussing such issues as birth rights, wellbeing, diversity and social media, and how these are shaping contemporary motherhood.
The conversation was particularly topical, in the wake of the Yes vote in last week’s Irish abortion referendum. Schiller, a campaigner for maternal rights, argued that birth rights are not just about pregnant women – the referendum was instrumental in redefining choice and autonomy. She also saw the Repeal of the Eighth Amendment as evidence that “women’s storytelling is being listened to”.
The panel spoke of the potential of social media to “revolutionise motherhood” and open up a more inclusive dialogue. Telford, creator of the website Mother of all Lists, discussed her use of social media to paint a well-rounded picture of parenting, documenting the aspects that are challenging as well as rewarding. Thorn, comedian and podcaster, emphasised that the platform can be used “in a positive way” to offer support and reassurance to new mothers.
Social media was also seen as a tool to challenge the dominant narratives of motherhood. Brathwaite, co-founder of online campaign Make Motherhood Diverse, explained her initial frustration at the fact that it is presented as overwhelmingly white and middle class. Her campaign seeks to “diversify the face of motherhood online”.
The principal message of the discussion was a redefinition of how we treat mothers, both on an individual and structural level. Schiller stressed the importance of “listening to other women” and respecting their choices, and on a more institutional level, taking pregnant women more seriously without “infantilising” them.
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