By: Lydia Patel
In the vibrant landscapes of Arizona, a transformative force in reproductive health has emerged through the Desert Star Institute for Family Planning, Inc., founded by the esteemed Dr. Deshawn Taylor. With a career dedicated to advancing women’s health, Dr. Taylor has built a beacon of hope and empowerment that bridges gaps in family planning and reproductive justice.
Dr. Taylor, a passionate gynecologist with a fellowship in complex family planning, originally founded Desert Star Family Planning in 2013 as a private practice. Her vision was clear: to address gaps in healthcare access and meet the diverse needs of her community. This vision evolved into the Desert Star Institute for Family Planning in 2017, with a mission to provide comprehensive, compassionate care while advocating for reproductive justice.
In a significant move in 2023, Dr. Taylor transitioned Desert Star Family Planning from a for-profit practice into the nonprofit Desert Star Institute for Family Planning. This strategic shift allowed the organization to integrate clinical care and community advocacy under one roof, enhancing its ability to serve the community holistically.
Photo Courtesy: Desert Star Institute
The Desert Star Institute integrates a range of services, including contraception counseling and gender-affirming hormone therapy—a crucial addition Dr. Taylor implemented five years ago to meet the needs of the LGBTQ+ community. This holistic approach ensures that every patient receives personalized, inclusive care.
Dr. Taylor’s journey profoundly influences her work. From a young age, she envisioned herself as a physician, initially aspiring to be a brain surgeon. However, her path shifted towards gynecology when she realized her desire to care for individuals over time and across generations. The pivotal moment came during her residency when she encountered resistance to providing abortion care. This experience galvanized her commitment to advocating for abortion access and led her to pursue a fellowship in family planning.
The founding of Desert Star Institute was driven by Dr. Taylor’s vision of integrating abortion care with other reproductive services, creating a supportive and non-judgmental environment. This approach addresses immediate healthcare needs and fosters a welcoming space where patients feel valued and respected.
Photo Courtesy: Desert Star Institute
In Arizona, accessing reproductive health care poses significant challenges. Policies often mirror those of more restrictive Southern states, creating barriers for individuals seeking comprehensive family planning services. Funding separations and anti-abortion sentiments embedded in policies exacerbate these challenges, limiting access to accurate information and supportive care.
Dr. Taylor’s institute tackles these issues head-on through various programs and initiatives. One notable initiative is the long-term birth control program, which provides free hormonal implants and IUDs to low-income women. This program alleviates the stress of unplanned pregnancies, allowing individuals to focus on other aspects of their lives.
The institute also engages in community education and advocacy. The recently launched DOULAS for Change program trains Black community doulas in trauma-informed care, domestic violence identification, and political advocacy. This program represents a significant step towards empowering community birth workers and addressing broader reproductive justice issues.
Reproductive justice is at the core of the institute’s mission, addressing not only abortion access but also the broader context of reproductive rights. Dr. Taylor emphasizes the importance of bodily autonomy, the right to parent in safe and sustainable communities, and the need for comprehensive support systems for families.
Dr. Taylor advocates for grassroots organizing and legislative advocacy as crucial components of advancing reproductive justice. The institute collaborates with local leaders and coalitions to work on repealing restrictive abortion policies and supporting communities most impacted by these regulations.
Dr. Taylor advises open conversations about reproductive health for individuals looking to support reproductive justice. Addressing the stigma and isolation often associated with abortion and other reproductive issues can foster a more informed and supportive community. The Desert Star Institute welcomes contributions through its website, which offers options for donations, volunteering, and staying updated on events.
Photo Courtesy: Dr. DeShawn Taylor
Upcoming events include the institute’s second annual cocktail gala and fundraiser on September 26th, aimed at supporting the sustainability of its clinical services. Additionally, Desert Star Institute is gearing up for its Giving Tuesday campaign, highlighting the impact of donations and the institute’s ongoing programs.
Dr. Taylor’s work is a testament to the profound impact of dedicated advocacy and comprehensive care in reproductive health. Through the Desert Star Institute, she continues to champion women’s health, fight for reproductive justice, and inspire positive change within the community.
For more information about Desert Star Institute for Family Planning, visit http://desertstarfp.org, follow them on social media, or join their upcoming events to support their mission.
Published by: Khy Talara
