May 19, 2025
The American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) is outraged and deeply saddened by the bombing of the American Reproductive Centers fertility clinic in Palm Springs, California, on May 17, 2025. This act of violence, which resulted in injuries to multiple individuals and the death of the suspect, is a reprehensible assault on reproductive healthcare and the safety of those who provide and seek such services.
We unequivocally condemn this attack and the extremist ideologies that fuel such violence. All individuals—patients, providers, and staff—deserve to feel safe when accessing or delivering care, including reproductive and fertility services.
As midwives and advocates for reproductive health and human rights, we reaffirm our commitment to protecting access to safe, ethical, and compassionate reproductive care. We call on leaders, policymakers, and fellow health organizations to denounce violence against reproductive healthcare facilities and to take meaningful steps to safeguard these essential services.
Considering this tragedy, we are reminded of the importance of community and solidarity. ACNM’s 70th Annual Meeting & Exhibition is scheduled to take place in Palm Springs from October 11–13, 2025. This gathering will bring together midwives, healthcare professionals, and advocates to advance maternal/child health and practice midwifery. We remain committed to hosting this event in Palm Springs, standing in solidarity with the community and reaffirming our dedication to the safety and well-being of all individuals seeking reproductive healthcare.
This tragedy is a stark reminder of the increasing threats faced by those in reproductive healthcare. It strengthens our resolve to fight for justice, safety, and dignity for all individuals seeking care and for those who provide it.