Written by Chelsea Bellon
Photos courtesy of Julianne Denny
In many Indigenous communities, birth is more than a medical event—it is a sacred ceremony, deeply rooted in tradition, community, and ancestral knowledge. While the term “Doula” is widely recognized today, its origins are tied to Western frameworks that may not fully capture the depth of Indigenous birthing practices. Long before Western society formalized the role of Doulas, Indigenous families, Elders, and community members played an essential part in supporting birth as a ceremony.
Today, many Indigenous communities use the terms Birthworker and Doula interchangeably, reflecting both historical traditions and contemporary roles. Birthworkers provide non-medical support before, during, and after childbirth, offering emotional, spiritual, and physical care. Birthworkers provide information around perinatal education, community resources, and advocacy support. Many consider this work a calling—”heart work” that centers ceremony and connection, creating a meaningful and supported start for both parents and baby.
Strengthening Indigenous Birthwork in Montana
Since the introduction of the Indigenous Full Spectrum Doula training to Montana’s Tribal communities in 2022, the movement of Indigenous Birthworkers has gained remarkable momentum. Trainings held across reservations have supported more than 80 Birthworkers, empowering those in both rural and urban communities throughout the state. Following training efforts supported by the Montana Obstetrics & Maternal Support (MOMS) program, newly trained Birthworkers sought continued education, mentorship, and community. In response, the Native American Initiatives (NAI) Program with Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies – Montana (HMHB-MT) cultivated a space for growth, connection, and collaboration.
Through monthly gatherings, Birthworkers from across Montana have built a network to share successes, navigate challenges, and learn from one another. Under the leadership of NAI Program Director, Amy Stiffarm, the group has welcomed guest speakers and educators to help Birthworkers develop their skills and expand their impact.
- Kendra Potter, a Birth Doula and Trainer from Missoula, has provided mentorship on balancing birthwork with family life and other job responsibilities.
- Tina Begay of Redtail Accounting has shared insights on marketing, networking, and business growth for Birthworkers.
Diona Buck, representing the MOMS Program provided guidance and resources for Indigenous Birthworkers to engage and support families and elders in their communities. The Family Care Space initiative was formed to provide supplies for communities to create a breastfeeding and respite space for events such as pow wows, basketball games, health fairs, celebrations, and more. The Family Care space was intended to be led by the local Indigenous Birthworkers; 15 Family Care Spaces were sent out to rural and urban communities across Montana.- Most recently, the group welcomed Glenda Abbot, founder of the Indigenous Birth Justice Network in Canada, which now extends into Washington State. She introduced valuable perspectives on land-based birthing practices and the role of Birthworkers in community healing and revitalization.
Join the Indigenous Birthworker Network
The Indigneous Birthworker Network of Montana continues to grow, providing a space for Indigenous Birthworkers, past Doula training participants, and advocates to connect with a supportive community, access valuable resources, receive mentorship and advocacy to strengthen skills and expand culturally centered care. The Indigenous Birthworker Network of Montana fosters collaboration, ensuring Indigenous Birthworkers are recognized, supported and uplifted in their roles. The group meets every third Thursday of the month from 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM and welcomes those who are passionate about supporting Indigenous birthwork in Montana.
For more information or to join the meetings, contact Chelsea Bellon at chelsea@hmhb-mt.org.
Together, this network is strengthening the path for Indigenous Birthworkers, ensuring that birth remains a ceremony and community-centered care continues to thrive for future generations.
To find Doulas and Birthworkers near you, use the category “Doulas and Other Birth Professionals” on LIFTS!
In 2024, an intentional partnership was formed between the Native American Initiatives (NAI) Program at HMHB-MT, the Western Montana Area Health Education Center, and the Family Medicine Residency Program of Western Montana. Their shared goal: to strengthen maternal health in Tribal Communities across Montana by engaging collaboration and connection.
With the support and encouragement of our partners at St. Joseph Fund, The CAB was able to grow and prioritize growth and engagement for the second year. The New Year new and some returning members shared their interest and work related to maternal and family health. The second year of The CAB members are: Danna Runsabove, Dani Vazquez, Mary Ellen Lafromboise, Amber Daniels, Kaycee Martinez, Alyssa Schock, Melissa Gordon, Amber Birdinground Cummins, Ticia Cliff, Ni’Cole Triplett, Charlene Ramirez, Misty Pipe, Gerlinda Morrison, Jules Denny, Heather Fourstar, Donnell Buckles, and Sisi Whiteman. Additional facilitators and advisors include: Margaret Ann Adams and Diona Buck. In an effort to expand representation across the state, the second year CAB members capture Tribal program managers, healthcare providers, Birthworkers, and advocates supporting and leading maternal and family health initiatives in their communities.
This year, the CAB will focus on collaboration and growth. CAB members will engage with organizations and working groups through brainstorming and listening sessions. They will also have access to engaging professional development opportunities that align with their cultural values.
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