Organizing people, organizing meaning.

Community doulas are trusted, culturally rooted birth workers who provide emotional, physical, and informational support to mothers throughout pregnancy, birth, and the early postpartum period. Grounded in the communities they serve, they play a vital role in improving outcomes for parents and babies, particularly in communities impacted by systemic inequities. The “Courage in Care” highlights the essential role that community doulas play in maternal and infant health, and emphasizes the urgent need for better support and recognition within the healthcare system.

Through photojournalism, audio storytelling and immersive environments, the exhibit explores abundance, community, joy and justice — grounded in the lived experiences of New Jersey doulas and the families they serve.

“The Courage in Care” was developed by Narrative Initiative, the Burke Foundation and In Good Company in collaboration with New Jersey community members and a statewide advisory council of community doulas and maternal health leaders.

The exhibit and associated community events are produced by NJPAC Arts & Well-Being and supported by the Burke Foundation, Ascend at the Aspen Institute, MERCK for Mothers, Community Health Acceleration Partnership, Turrell Fund, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and MCJ Amelior Foundation.