The Five Pillars

Overview

ITOA Movement’s success hinges on the integration of community-driven programming and education, research and data analysis, advocacy and policy analysis, consulting services, and collaboration. By combining these five pillars, we foster a unique culture that drives positive change in the broader healthcare landscape. We are confident that our approach will lead to improved birth experiences, reduced disparities, and enhanced overall wellbeing for families in our communities. All pillars of ITOA Movement are designed to facilitate one aspect of a multifaceted approach to community-driven sustainable increases in health literacy, quality of life across the lifecourse, and community autonomy through the prioritization of gender, birth, and reproductive justice in our Black liberatory praxis.

  1. Community-driven programming and education: Recognizing the importance of community involvement, the agency actively engages with the local community to raise awareness about the issues surrounding Black maternal and sexual and reproductive health. Through educational programs, workshops and community events, the agency empowers individuals with knowledge and resources to make informed decisions about their health.

  2. Research and data analysis: The agency conducts comprehensive research to understand the factors contributing to the disparities in Black maternal and sexual and reproductive health outcomes. This includes analyzing existing data, conducting innovative qualitative and quantitative research studies, and collaborating with local healthcare providers and community organizations. Our dedicated research department collaborates with leading experts and institutions to conduct groundbreaking studies that address critical gaps in understanding. By actively participating in research initiatives , we aim to contribute to the development of best practices and improve outcomes for Black birthing folks and their communities. ITOA Movement is committed to advancing knowledge and driving evidence-based practices in the field of birth, reproductive and sexual healthcare.

  3. Advocacy and policy change: ITOA Movement actively engages with policymakers, community leaders, and healthcare providers to advocate for policy changes that prioritize Black pregnancy-related and sexual and reproductive health. By leveraging research findings, the agency aims to influence policy decisions and promote equitable access to quality healthcare services.

  4. Consulting services: Through expert reproductive, birth, gender, and racial justice consulting we help advance the goals of healthcare institutions, nonprofit organizations, academic institutions and community-based organizations towards more equitable service provision, programming, and community engagement.

  5. Collaboration and partnerships: ITOA Movement understands the significance of collaboration and partnerships in achieving its mission. By working closely with local healthcare providers, community organizations, and academic institutions, the agency aims to foster a collective effort to address the disparities and improve health outcomes for the Black community in Baton Rouge.

Through programming, research, advocacy, expert consulting and partnerships, the agency strives to create lasting change and promote equitable access to healthcare services for the Black community.