Wendi Cleckner is a dedicated attorney, midwife, and lifelong advocate for reproductive freedom, birthing rights, and the midwifery community. A true desert child, Wendi was born and raised in Arizona and began her journey into birth work in 1993 when she supported a close friend through childbirth. That moment sparked a deep calling that led her to midwifery, and over the years, she has practiced around the world—including in the Philippines, Sudan, and Iraq.

Rooted in her belief in the innate wisdom of women and birthing people, Wendi has spent decades helping individuals and communities reclaim their power to give birth on their own terms. Her commitment to advocacy and justice eventually led her to law school, where she expanded her ability to serve. She graduated in 2018, was admitted to the New Mexico Bar in 2023, and the Arizona Bar in 2025.

Today, Wendi blends her legal expertise with her midwifery roots to focus on reproductive justice—advocating around issues like obstetric violence, informed consent, and birthing rights. She represents midwives and doulas across the U.S., while also educating families and birth workers about their rights and responsibilities. Her policy-level work pushes for systemic change to ensure all birthing people are protected, respected, and truly seen.

For over 25 years, Wendi has stood with families during one of life’s biggest transitions—birth. Now, she brings that same grounded presence, clarity, and compassion to another sacred passage: death. Through her estate planning practice, she helps families have meaningful conversations, make empowered decisions, and create legally sound plans that will hold up when they’re needed most. Whether it’s naming guardians, protecting assets, or honoring final wishes, Wendi helps families approach death with the same care and intention they brought to birth.

Wendi has held numerous leadership roles, including:

• Current President, Arizona Community Birth Coalition

• Former Director of Advocacy and Policy, Midwives Alliance of North America (MANA)

• Former Vice President, Postpartum Support International – Arizona Chapter

• Former President, Vice President, and Secretary, Arizona Association of Midwives

In addition to her legal and advocacy work, Wendi continues to serve as a part-time midwife and nurtures her deep connection to the land through gardening, herbalism, and traditional healing practices. She is the founder of several respected organizations and practices, including Global Midwifery, Tempe Birth Center, and Freedom and the Seed. With her rare combination of midwifery experience and legal expertise, Wendi brings unmatched perspective, deep empathy, and fierce dedication to the families and professionals she serves.

“Don’t believe what your eyes are telling you. All they show is limitation. Look with your understanding, find out what you already know, and you’ll see the way to fly.”
—Richard Bach