About Me
Mel Kennedy
They/Them
My journey into Reproductive Justice work began in 2009 when I started my training to become a Doula through Doula UK. The advocacy role inherent in doula work deeply resonated with me, as I believe in empowering my clients with meaningful information so they can make the best choices for themselves.
In 2018, I delved deeper into holistic health by undertaking a 2-year herbalist apprenticeship with the Wild Ginger Community Herbal Center in Southern Maryland. Here, I immersed myself in the knowledge and practices of a community herbalist.
In 2020, I broadened my skill set by becoming certified through Birth Arts International as a Birth Doula (CD), Postpartum Doula (CPD), and Childbirth Educator (CBE). Additionally, I attained certification as a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) with the Academy of Lactation Policy and Procedures.
In 2021, my journey has guided me into the path of Midwifery to further serve my community. Currently, I am in Phase 3, Primary under supervision, with the National Midwifery Institute.
As a member of multiple marginalized communities, I am committed to bridging the gap between community members and the medical establishment. Facilitating communication and fostering collaboration are central to my approach.
Beyond my studies, I am a parent to two creative and free-spirited children. My oldest child was born in England, while my youngest was born in Virginia. When I'm not working with clients, you can find me tending to my garden, cosplaying at local comic conventions, indulging in Dungeons & Dragons adventures, or enjoying cartoons with my kids.
For we have, built into all of us, old blueprints of expectation and response, old structures of oppression, and these must be altered at the same time as we alter the living conditions which are a result of those structures. For the master's tools will never dismantle the master's house.