mitigating disparities
“If a doula were a drug, it would be unethical not to use it.” – Dr. John Kennell
Doulas, Birthworkers, and providers.
The doula's role extends beyond providing physical and emotional support during the perinatal and postpartum period; it involves advocating for inclusive care and addressing systemic disparities in maternal and infant health.
A lack of Black doulas and providers in general stem from the colonization of birth work. Black doulas continue to face systemic and local discrimination in their communities.
As community doulas, we should strive to shed light on systemic and racial discrimination, the continuous challenges faced by BIPOC doulas and the urgent need to address the issue.
We must be the catalyst of change. Amplification of BIPOC doulas and providers in our communities, promoting equity, supporting Black owned doula businesses, providing monetary support, and the list continues.
D.E.I.
Diversity
Diversity encompasses various dimensions, including race, ethnicity, culture, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and other factors. In the context of doulas, diversity is about acknowledging and celebrating the differences among birthing individuals and recognizing the importance of representation within the profession.
A diverse doula profession allows for better understanding and responsiveness to the unique needs of clients from different backgrounds. It fosters an environment where individuals feel seen, heard, and understood, which contributes to a more positive birth and postpartum experience.
Equity
Equity in birthwork includes ensuring fair and just access to doula services for all individuals, irrespective of their background or circumstances. This involves addressing systemic barriers that limit access to care, such as financial constraints, language barriers, and discriminatory practices. Doulas committed to equity actively work towards eliminating these barriers by offering sliding-scale fees, language support, and collaborating with healthcare providers to advocate for their clients' rights and choices.
Unfortunately, as many doulas of color work tirelessly to remove systemic barriers that create a hindrance in finding quality care for their clients, oftentimes the doulas sustain harm or are met with being silenced, being forced to lower their service costs to meet the needs of others, or other barriers created causing further harm or trauma to the doula.
To ensure that the doula profession has a strong foundation, The commitment to equity must also ensure that doulas themselves receive the support, care, and treatment they deserve as they advocate for the well-being of others.
Inclusivity
To achieve true inclusion, proactive efforts must be made to dismantle the barriers and biases that hinder the full engagement and participation of doulas. This necessitates a commitment to address systemic issues within the profession, including discrimination, inequality, and prejudice. By actively confronting and challenging these systemic hurdles, doulas can create a more equitable and inclusive space for all.
Inclusive practices extend beyond the physical environment and delve into the creation of safe and nurturing spaces where doulas can freely express themselves, share their experiences, and have their voices genuinely heard. This involves fostering an atmosphere of open and respectful communication, actively listening to the perspectives and concerns of doulas of color, and wholeheartedly valuing their unique contributions to the profession. By nurturing a culture of inclusivity, doulas are empowered, supported, and motivated to thrive in their roles, fostering a sense of belonging and fulfillment.
By embracing diversity and actively promoting inclusive values, doulas can create a space where clients feel respected, understood, and empowered throughout their birthing journey.