Several past and present members of Duke Obstetrics and Gynecology are featured in the "Agents of Change: Portraits of Activism in the History of Duke Health" oral history project led by Jeffrey Baker, MD, PhD, and Rebecca Williams of Duke Medical Center Library-Archives. The project set out to document the work of activists and “change agents” throughout the history of Duke Health in conjunction with Duke’s centennial anniversary.
The Reproductive Justice Advocates section of the digital exhibit features:
Eleanor Easley, MD, the first woman to receive a four-year medical degree from Duke University and a co-founder of the Durham Women’s Clinic. Active in medical politics, she fought for abortion rights and increased access to comprehensive sex education throughout her career. Her interview is with Philip Pearce, MD, a retired partner at the Durham Women’s Clinic and a colleague of Dr. Easley’s, and covers themes of gender discrimination, women's health and community activism.
Joyce N. Jiggetts, RN, BSN, CMHRP, a passionate advocate for women's health, focusing on addressing disparities affecting marginalized communities. With a nursing background from Hampton University, she became a vocal supporter of maternal health at the Durham County Health Department in 1995. Within Duke Health's Baby-Love/CMHRP program, she actively supports high-risk pregnant women, emphasizing patient-centered care.
Elizabeth Livingston, MD, maternal-fetal medicine specialist and advocate for women's health. She reflects on her early experiences practicing gynecology on those who have HIV/AIDS in a pediatric clinic and facing resistance from nurses.
Phyllis C. Leppert, CNM, MD, PhD, a physician, researcher, and advocate for women's health, known for her work in improving reproductive healthc are outcomes and abortion rights. Dr. Leppert reflects on the challenges she faced as a female medical student, like pervasive attitudes and sexual innuendos.
A video gallery of activists is also part of the project.