Yiya Vi Kagingdi: Celebrating Community Doula Milestones
If it wasn’t for Tewa Women United and Yiya Vi Kagingdi Doula Project, I don’t think I would’ve chosen to pursue doula training. Honestly, they are the most forward thinking group of reproductive justice advocates in the Southwest. I’ve met with quite a few Women’s group here in NM, and they are truly Full-Spectrum-Pro-Family based.
– Niquita LaValdo
This year, we’re excited to pilot our first-ever Community Doula Training. After much planning and preparation by our Indigenous Women’s Health and Reproductive Justice program staff and an extensive application process, 15 community members from the Northern Pueblos as well as Santa Fe and Rio Arriba Counties will begin the nine-month training this coming September.
This training has been created as a comprehensive and family centered experience that is rooted within Tewa Women United teachings, values, and beliefs.
Doulas who take this training will be able to work with families by providing culturally relevant care, advocacy and support from preconception through birth to early parenting. Our training has been designed to provide students with valuable evidence-based information and hands-on experiences so that they feel ready to work with expectant parents. Each weekend will be taught by our staff, doulas and local community experts.
Students will have access to:
- An online student portal and learning manuals for each weekend training.
- Mentorship with ourYiya Vi Kagingdi “Big Sister” Doulas during the certification period.
- An established community of birthworkers – including monthly doula meetings, student Facebook page, and connection with local providers.
In addition, three doulas who have been with us since the beginning of YVK ten years ago will be concluding their service in September. We are planning a dinner to honor them and are deeply grateful for everything they have offered to our community over the years.
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to honor all mothers, and Mother Earth.
Tewa Women United is a 501(c)3 and your donation is tax-deductible. 100% of your online contribution goes directly to TWU, thanks to the generosity of First Nations Development Institute.