Finding Your Way Back
My mom is and has always been the family tree keeper. She has now passed down the genealogy bug to me. Together, we have taken up the task to reconnect with the stories and traditions of our elders and ancestors. I didn’t spend much time paying attention to the ways, traditions, and mannerisms of my foremothers because I was a little girl in the 90’s on the westside of Chicago enjoying her girlhood. I was the definition of “ We Outside!”. You could find me beating up the neighborhood boys, riding bikes, and dancing in open fire hydrants. As I grew older cooking, connecting, and talking to my elders was the last thing on my mind. As a mom and doula there have been so many times where I’ve cried because I just need a grandma to help me learn what I need to know as I do this work. Even though I am making space for the grief that comes in those moments, I have found comfort in re-introducing the concept and practice of “tradition” for self-care.
I realized that my cousins were actually the ones who taught me pretty much all self-care practices that come naturally to me today. They tried to teach me how to jump rope and play basketball.…keyword: tried. They taught me how to braid which has been my bread and butter for a decade prior to becoming a doula. They protected me, pushed me to speak up for myself when I was wronged, and held my hand across the street to buy snacks at the gas station. They taught me about sex, personal hygiene, and how to take care of my skin. They were my first introduction to community and I am so thankful everyday for my time with them. I have my own little girl now, and I am proud to pass to her everything they taught me as I came into my own.
As a doula, I realize how important it is to use my cultural traditions to provide care for the families in my fold. Statistics show that people of color have better maternal health outcomes when we receive care from folks who look like us and share similar life experiences. I am in a season of learning the traditions of my culture for this very reason. I remember when my grandmother made my aunt greens every week as she battled cancer because she felt led by the spirit to do so. As I honor her act of love, I’ve made a ritual out of making a pot of greens every other week and using the pot likker to heal myself as a postpartum person. When I took my West African belly binding class, I knew that even though I had to learn this skill outside my lineage it wasn’t too late to bring back into my family. The instructor said something that changed me forever, “Once you teach the mother, you won’t have to teach the child.” and that mantra has been the foundation, intersection, and motivation of my self-care and doula practice ever since.
I would love to hear about some of your traditions! I will be talking more about traditions this month on IG live. as we head into baby making and holiday season. See you there!
November 2023 Meet-Up:
Strolling Through: The Illinois Prairie Path
Join us for a delightful event as we embark on a scenic stroll through the enchanting Illinois Prairie Path. On Wednesday, November 19, 2023, at 10:00 AM CST, we will gather at 511 South York Street, Elmhurst, IL 60126 to kick off this exciting adventure.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature as we explore the picturesque landscapes and breathtaking views along the Illinois Prairie Path. This event provides a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow nature enthusiasts, discover hidden gems, and unwind in the tranquility of the great outdoors.
Whether you are an avid hiker or simply enjoy leisurely walks, this event promises to be a memorable experience. So, lace up your walking shoes, grab your camera, and get ready to embark on a journey through the captivating Illinois Prairie Path.
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to connect with nature and make lasting memories. We can't wait to see you there!
Who are the people in your neighborhood?
Local Community Leaders, Hero’s, and Do-Gooders you should know!
Donnell McLachlan, M.A.
For starters, this is NOT enough space to give Donnell his flowers. Donnell is a writer, teacher, theologian, and story teller who I have had the privilege of being in community with. His TikTok platform has become a space of liberation, truth, and advocacy for marginalized communities. I felt that it was important to highlight him in this months newsletter because of the unrelenting work he is doing to document, critique, and uplift the voices of those covering the war on Palestine. Please take some time to scroll though Donnell’s work as well, engage with his content, and most importantly donate to his platform!
Thank you Donnell, I am continuously so honored and proud to know you.
#FreePalestine
I think it’s important that I use my platform to share links and resources for folks who are interested in supporting Palestinian liberation. Please take some time to donate, share, and read more about the war on Palestine. The most important thing we can do is bear witness and continue to tell the stories of the Palestinian people.
Here are a few ways you can get involved: