Michiana Chronicles: Black maternal health

April: I’m here with Marchelle Pettit, a community doula and champion for Black maternal health and reproductive justice and we’re recognizing Women’s History Month by drawing attention to a national health crisis – especially acute in Indiana – Black Maternal Health outcomes. So, Marchelle, thanks so much for joining me today. Let’s start with you. What drew you to birth work? Marchelle: Hi, April, thanks so much for having me. So, I was introduced to birth work while completing my undergrad at Bethel University. I worked part time at a local maternity home that provided shelter for pregnant moms who had barriers to healthy housing. And so, I was able to spend a lot of time with the residents who were preparing for childbirth and parenting. And once I was introduced to a birth doula at that space, and I learned about the devastating disparity and statistics, especially as a Black woman, a Black mother…I completely immersed myself in the work. And I’ve been doing the work ever since. April: It’s so wonderful you’re doing this in our community. So, let’s talk about Reproductive Justice, and maybe just offer a definition for listeners. What is it? Marchelle: Sure. I think...