The Courage in Care: Community Doulas and the Joyful Revolution of Birth is more than an exhibition — it’s a love letter to the doulas, birthing parents, and communities reshaping what it means to give and receive dignified, culturally-grounded care.

This immersive experience was developed under the guidance and leadership of a statewide advisory council of community doulas and maternal health advocates across New Jersey. With support from Narrative Initiative and In Good Company, these birth workers shaped the stories, themes, and vision that bring The Courage in Care to life. 

Through photojournalism, audio storytelling, and multi-sensory environments, the exhibit centers Black and Brown birthing families and explores themes of abundance, tradition, joy, and justice. Community doulas — trusted, culturally rooted birth workers — provide essential physical, emotional, and informational support throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Their presence improves outcomes for parents and babies, particularly in communities historically impacted by systemic inequities.

This exhibition is also a call to action. You can support the movement for birth justice by:

• Investing in community doulas as essential, well-compensated members of the perinatal workforce.
• Ensuring doulas are welcomed, respected, and valued within every healthcare setting

Supported by the Burke Foundation, Ascend at the Aspen Institute, MERCK for Mothers, Community Health Acceleration Partnership, Turrell Fund, MCJ Amelior Foundation, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, and Bristol Myers Squibb, The Courage in Care is part of a larger effort to reimagine maternal health in New Jersey and beyond. Events associated with the exhibit are produced by NJPAC Arts & Well-Being.