My First Field Placement with The Winnipeg Boldness Project: Indigenous Doulas and Health Advocacy

By Ari Phanlouvong, 1st year MDP student 

 

Tipi in the sun

The Indigenous doula program is a one of a kind service offered in Manitoba for Indigenous women who travel for birth. As I have learned through interviews, as well as through discussions with friends, there are many common misconceptions about the role of doulas in birth. Indigenous doulas are however distinct as they offer women with emotional support, along with an optional support that is culturally based. This cultural support includes teachings, stories, ceremonies, natural medicines and teas for women during pregnancy, birth and postpartum. More importantly, Indigenous doulas ensure that women are in control of events and processes surrounding birth, and that they are provided with support and resources that are necessary for informed decision-making. Thus, I learned this summer that the Indigenous doulas not only provided emotional care, but were also very strong advocates for women in the hospital setting. 

In the same sense, as partners in the doula program, The Winnipeg Boldness Project (Boldness) and the North End Women’s Centre offered a “Baby Basket” to all families participating in the program. The Baby Basket allows families to choose several items from a variety of categories such as bathing and hygiene, clothing, toys and books, and even some cultural items such as a star blanket and moccasins. The Baby Basket package therefore advocates and ensures that each basket respects families’ right to self-determination.

Tucker, the Boldness office sweetheart

This field placement has helped me to develop not only practical skills in the field of research, but has also enabled me to think of Indigenous women’s health differently.

I had the privilege of meeting and working with many new individuals throughout the summer, from the hardworking and passionate women at Boldness, and a great research team, to the families in the community, the doulas, and some of the women who have initiated this program. Meeting individuals from such a broad range of professional backgrounds and experiences has allowed me to really understand the different aspects of the Indigenous doula program.