Celebrating Women’s History Month as a Doula Trainer

DeAnna "The Doula Trainer" Tharpe

As a doula trainer and advocate for Black and Brown families, Women’s History Month holds a special place in my heart. This month isn’t just about looking back at history — it’s about recognizing the women who shaped the path we walk today and making sure we continue that legacy with intention and care.

For me, this work is deeply personal. When I started my journey into birth work, I was driven by my own experiences as a mother and the gaps I saw in care for women who look like me. Over the years, I’ve learned that some of the most impactful birth workers in history were women whose names we may never read in textbooks — community midwives, granny midwives, and women who cared for their neighbors out of love and necessity.

These women were the foundation of culturally centered, compassionate care long before the term “doula” became popular. They stood in the gap for families who were overlooked by the healthcare system, bringing both knowledge and comfort into birthing spaces. Their work inspires everything I do as a doula trainer today — because I know that training the next generation means continuing a legacy that’s always been rooted in community care.

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, I invite everyone—aspiring doulas, parents, and community members—to reflect on the women who’ve shaped their journeys. Whether it’s a grandmother, a mentor, or even your own birth story, we all have women who showed us the power of care, strength, and advocacy.

This month, I’m committed to not only celebrating that legacy but also teaching others how to carry it forward. If you’ve ever thought about becoming a doula, I encourage you to take that first step and join me for an upcoming training. Together, we can make sure the future of birth work honors the lessons of the past while creating new opportunities for the families we serve.

Interested in becoming a doula? Explore my upcoming trainings to learn more!