International Day of the Girl Child

Presentation with Asociación Manos Abiertas

We marked International Day of the Girl Child with a presentation from our Global Partner, Asociación Manos Abiertas! Based in Guatemala, Manos was founded in 2008 by a German midwife in collaboration with the Planned Parenthood Federation of America. Manos is focused on providing culturally appropriate care, empowering women through education, and offering various health services, including prenatal care, family planning, and cervical cancer prevention.

During the event, Executive Director Diana Freiwald highlighted midwives’ role in improving maternal and neonatal health in Guatemala, where access to quality reproductive healthcare is limited. Additionally, she shared insights into their on-the-ground work. This includes launching a new mobile clinic made possible through our Global Partners Program. This mobile clinic allows them to reach even more communities with comprehensive sexual and reproductive health care, extending their impact beyond traditional clinic walls.

Presentation Date: October 10th, 2024

Diana Freiwald

Executive Director of Asociación Manos Abiertas

Diana Freiwald is a passionate and dedicated midwife and the Executive Director of Asociación Manos Abiertas. She is committed to advancing sexual and reproductive rights and healthcare within the humanitarian and non-profit sectors.

With a deep connection to her homeland, Guatemala, Diana is driven by a mission to create better, more humanized experiences for women throughout. Her extensive experience in midwifery, combined with a strong dedication to advocacy and community service, empowers her to make a tangible difference in the lives of women. Diana strives to ensure that every woman has access to comprehensive care and the knowledge to make informed choices about their reproductive health.

Asociación Manos Abiertas: Community Impact – Presented by Diana Friewald

Chat Box

Q+A

Questions from the audience, with responses from Diana Friewald

Is abortion legal in Guatemala?

Abortion is only permitted when there is deadly risk to the mother due to the pregnancy. However, no one attempts to get an abortion through legal channels. There is a general understanding that abortion is always illegal as well as that there is a lot of risk associated with it.

Where do patients get abortions that come in for post-abortion care?

People get abortions some which are safe and some that aren’t. As we know, abortions happen when it’s legal and when it isn’t. We provide information and resources for people to ensure they access the health care services they need. We are strong supporters of reproductive justice and have been since our inception.