Campaigns

Listen to Me Now

Black Mamas and the people who care for them deserve to have their humanity recognized.

#ListenToMeNow is here to tell the truth about what parents, providers, family members, and communities are experiencing. We are here to offer a safe space for you to tell your story in a way that feels good to you (writing, photo, or video) without fear of reprisal. We will amplify the stories you share (anonymously if you choose) to give others hope, show solidarity, and center our humanity.

 Beyond Birth Work

Community-based doulas go #BeyondBirthWork to provide holistic, culturally-relevant care to women of color and low-income women who would not otherwise be able to afford care. The community-based doula care model helps women navigate systems to connect to the services and supports they need to be healthy. This model also addresses racial discrimination affecting communities of color and helps reduce racial disparities in maternal health and birth outcomes.

Now, Black women-led community-based organizations like Ancient Song Doula Services need your support for full recognition as important maternal health stakeholders and to get the fair pay they deserve!

We ask you to join us in demanding that:

  • Community-based doulas be fairly compensated for the important services they provide to expecting and new parents who need it most. 

  • Government agencies acknowledge the role of community-based doula organizations that offer training as legitimate certifying entities.  

  • The New York State doula pilot program for Medicaid reimbursement (proposed by Governor Andrew Cuomo) work with community-based doula organizations to pilot the program in communities where racial disparities in maternal health and birth outcomes are greatest.

  • Black women-led organizations and community representatives be included in the New York State doula pilot program planning and implementation.