Welcome to "The Policy Doula", a powerful podcast hosted by a Crystal D. Charley, MBA, CD (SMC) that brings the urgent conversation of Black birth and reproductive justice policy and legislation to the forefront. This enlightening podcast is dedicated to eradicating the disparities in maternal health and advocating for change.
"The Policy Doula" features a diverse range of influential guests, including birth justice champions, legislators, policy analysts, birth justice allies, and community-aligned advocates. Through engaging discussions and in-depth interviews, we explore the crucial intersection of policy, legislation, and birthing experiences, with a specific focus on the Black community.
Join us as we delve into the complexities of Black birth and reproductive justice, uncovering systemic barriers and discussing strategies for meaningful change. We aim to empower our listeners with knowledge, inspire action, and amplify the voices of those working tirelessly to dismantle inequities.
"The Policy Doula" is your go-to resource for understanding the impact of policy and legislation on birthing experiences and advocating for justice. Together, let's challenge the status quo, demand accountability, and create a future where all individuals have access to safe, respectful, and equitable birthing care.
Tune in to "The Policy Doula" and join the movement to transform the landscape of Black birth and reproductive justice.
Podcast
Vision
Rooted in the spirit of Sankofa, The Policy doula stands to ensure that every Black woman receives the care and support she deserves during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum.
Drawing on the principles of Sankofa, we aim to learn from the past, empower the present, and shape a future where every Black mother receives the culturally sensitive, comprehensive, and equitable care she deserves. Together, we advocate for justice, challenge systemic biases, and work towards a society where Black maternal health is prioritized, celebrated, and protected.
“Pushing” Legislation through Legacy
Root birth legislation in the principle of Sankofa, which means learning from the past to shape a better future. This involves acknowledging and addressing historical injustices and disparities in Black maternal health. By examining past policies and practices that have contributed to these disparities, birth legislation can be informed by lessons learned and take proactive steps to rectify systemic biases and structural barriers that have disproportionately affected Black mothers.
Learning from the Past
Embrace an African-centered approach that acknowledges and respects the cultural values, traditions, and experiences of Black mothers. This principle recognizes the importance of cultural sensitivity in providing comprehensive and equitable care during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. It emphasizes the need to incorporate culturally relevant practices and perspectives into birth legislation to ensure that Black mothers receive the care and support they deserve.
African-Centered Approach
Empowerment and Advocacy
Empower Black mothers by ensuring they have access to information, education, and resources to make informed decisions about their own maternal healthcare. Birth legislation should prioritize the empowerment of Black mothers, enabling them to advocate for their rights, preferences, and needs. This principle recognizes the importance of amplifying the voices of Black mothers and involving them in the policymaking process to ensure their experiences and perspectives are central.
Addressing Systemic Biases
Challenge and dismantle systemic biases within the healthcare system. Birth legislation should include provisions that address racial disparities in maternal health outcomes, such as improving access to quality healthcare services, reducing implicit bias in medical settings, and promoting anti-racist practices within healthcare institutions. This principle acknowledges the need for comprehensive and targeted measures to address the root causes of disparities and ensure equitable care for Black mothers.
Black Birth
On the Ballot
The Black Birth on the Ballot campaign is an initiative that aims to address the disparities in Black maternal health in New Jersey.
Through training, this campaign focuses on mobilizing Black women as a voting bloc to advocate for policies that prioritize the safety and equity of Black birthing.
The campaign also aims to raise awareness about the disparities faced by Black mothers and mobilize resources to address them effectively.
In addition to addressing disparities, the campaign seeks to promote policies that improve access to quality healthcare for Black birthing families.
The Asè Toolkit focuses on African-centered approaches to maternal health legislation. It recognizes the deep roots of Black Maternal Health in African traditions and aims to address the challenges faced by Black mothers. Black women experience disproportionately high rates of maternal mortality and morbidity, demanding immediate attention and action. By adopting an African-centered lens, we can better understand the unique cultural, social, and historical factors that influence the experiences of Black mothers. The toolkit emphasizes the importance of community-based solutions, dismantling systemic racism and bias in healthcare, and involving Black mothers in the decision-making process. It provides resources, messaging guidance, and advocacy tools to promote equity and healing justice.
Asè Moving Maternal Health Legislation Through and African Centered Lens
Mission
"The Policy Doula," is dedicated to empowering and educating individuals on the significant influence of policy and legislation on the birthing experiences of Black mothers through African-centered approach.