Kenda Sutton-El | Health, Equity, and ReproJustice Advocate
Kenda Sutton-El
Founder • Executive Director
As the Founder and Executive Director of Birth in Color, Kenda Sutton-el passionately advocates for families of color, addressing systemic challenges. Leading at both local and national levels, she chairs the Virginia State Doula Taskforce and actively engages in the National Perinatal Taskforce. Kenda's commitment to birth justice is evident in her expertise in lactation counseling, doula training, and DEI initiatives, working to improve inclusivity and culturally sensitive care in healthcare systems. Through her unwavering dedication, Kenda underscores the belief that every birth, regardless of background, deserves warmth, respect, and equity.
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Commentary: Not all patients are treated equally. Black women know this all too well
By Kenda Sutton-ElIn a recent op-ed Dr. Martin Caplan and Dr. Kenneth Lipstock, two white male doctors, express strong concerns about an unconscious bias training bill that would require medical professionals, including those who deal with pregnancy and fertility care, to undergo a course in unconscious bias.
"Reproductive justice means ensuring every individual has the power to make decisions about their body, their family, and their future, free from coercion, discrimination, and injustice."
Press Features
Kenda Sutton-El:
Pioneering Change in Reproductive Justice and Maternal Health Advocacy
Traversing the Landscape of Reproductive Healthcare:In the complex arena of reproductive justice and maternal health advocacy, Kenda Sutton-El emerges as a steadfast advocate, utilizing her extensive expertise to address systemic challenges and champion the rights of marginalized communities. With a solid educational foundation and a diverse set of professional credentials, Kenda's journey unfolds as a reflection of her multifaceted leadership in shaping maternal healthcare policies.Educational Roots and Professional Expertise:Kenda's venture into the field of reproductive healthcare is rooted in a foundational Bachelor's degree in Health Science (B.H.S.). Her professional journey is characterized by her roles as a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) and Doula Trainer, emphasizing her commitment to nurturing empowerment and enhancing the birthing experience. As a seasoned Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Consultant, Kenda actively engages with inclusivity issues within healthcare systems, contributing to the development of equitable practices aligned with her overarching mission.Leadership on Various Fronts:Kenda's leadership spans both local and national realms. As the Chair of the Virginia State Doula Taskforce, she plays a crucial role in shaping maternal healthcare policies within the state. Simultaneously, her involvement in the Southern Reproductive Health Steering Committee and chairing the Integrative Health Subcommittee of the Regional Maternal Child Health (MCH) Taskforce reflects her commitment to a comprehensive approach to maternal and reproductive well-being. Contributing to the National Perinatal Taskforce, Kenda actively participates in critical national conversations, influencing the trajectory of maternal and reproductive healthcare.Dedication to Equity and Advocacy:Kenda Sutton-El's commitment to birth justice and maternal health advocacy is evident in her strategic initiatives. Active participation in the Policy Committee and her advisory role underscores her dedication to shaping policies that prioritize the needs of marginalized communities. Kenda's efforts extend beyond dismantling systemic barriers, advocating for equitable access to reproductive healthcare. Her advocacy narrative is intertwined with addressing critical issues and fostering a more inclusive and supportive healthcare environment.Acknowledgments of Impact:Kenda's impact is acknowledged through various accolades, signaling the recognition of her leadership and advocacy. Notable nominations for the "804 Woman Making History" and "Small Deeds, Big Impact" awards in 2023 were followed by the Health Equity Advocate of the Year award by Families USA in 2024. These acknowledgments highlight Kenda Sutton-El's continuous and impactful contributions to the field of maternal health, marking her as a steadfast advocate and pioneer in reproductive justice.
Kenda Sutton-El
Media Kit
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Kenda Sutton-El
Founder, Executive Director | Birth in ColorTagline:
Championing Equity in Maternal Health: Kenda Sutton-El Advocates for Change with Compassion and ExpertiseShort Bio:
As the Founder and Executive Director of Birth in Color, Kenda Sutton-el is a steadfast advocate, passionately addressing systemic challenges while championing the rights of families of color.Extended Bio:
As the Founder and Executive Director of Birth in Color, Kenda Sutton-el is a steadfast advocate, passionately addressing systemic challenges while championing the rights of families of color.Her leadership extends across local and national levels. She chairs the Virginia State Doula Taskforce, contributes to regional maternal-child health initiatives, and actively participates in the National Perinatal Taskforce.Kenda’s dedication to birth justice is evident in her extensive expertise, which spans lactation counseling, doula training, and consulting for DEI initiatives aimed at improving inclusivity and culturally sensitive care in healthcare systems.Through her unwavering commitment, Kenda’s collective work and advocacy underscores the belief that every birth, regardless of background, deserves to be embraced with warmth, respect, and equity.
