Grant: Health System Impact Fellowships - Doctoral Western Canada 1-year

No Dakelh Midwives practice in Dakelh Territory. The removal of Dakelh midwives from practice in Dakelh territory is the result of processes of colonization as well as Euro-western biomedical domination. This research seeks to revive Dakelh midwifery by implementing a culturally relevant, evidence-based, trauma-informed, community-led Dakelh Doula training curriculum. This research recognizes the social impacts of colonization, including birth evacuation policies, the opioid epidemic, and the COVID-19 pandemic, which underscore the urgent need for Indigenous-led perinatal care. The research asks fundamental questions: How can implementation science principles be effectively integrated into the Dakelh Doula Training curriculum? Will the program enhance perinatal outcomes and inspire Dakelh people to advocate for birth sovereignty? Methodologically, the research draws upon decolonizing and "Dakelh-izing" Implementation Science. The implementation will measure specifically, the enhancement of safety, advocacy, economic opportunities, and cultural knowledge. This process will be guided by community-based participatory research protocols an centre Dakelh governance protocols. Indigenous feminist, decolonizing, and critical race theoretical underpinnings guide this work. This research seeks to emphasizes collaboration with Dakelh knowledge holders and integrates community perspectives into the training process. The project's impact extends beyond research outcomes; it promotes cultural revitalization, addresses healthcare disparities, and empowers Dakelh communities. A decolonized knowledge sharing plan ensures Indigenous voices remain central throughout the dissemination process, fostering reciprocal learning and respectful engagement. In summary, this research represents a vital step towards reclaiming Dakelh midwifery, promoting health equity, and fostering self-determination within Indigenous communities.