.png)
As the National WIC Association (NWA) marks its 40th anniversary, we take a moment to reflect on the progress we've made in strengthening WIC and advancing the health and well-being of women, infants, and children across the nation. NWA is committed to fostering a workforce that is not only skilled and knowledgeable but also diverse, equitable, and inclusive.
Workforce development and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is important work and has become more intentional for NWA in recent years. By investing in WIC staff in a diverse, inclusive, and robust WIC workforce, NWA has worked to ensure that WIC is better equipped to meet the needs of its diverse participants. A WIC workforce that reflects the communities it serves is crucial to building trust and delivering the high-quality, compassionate care WIC families deserve.
As we honor Black Maternal Health Week (April 11-17), we are reminded of the critical importance of DEI in addressing the health disparities that disproportionately affect Black mothers and children. NWA’s commitment to an inclusive workforce and equitable policies drives meaningful change that strengthens WIC and the communities it serves.
When Equity Meets Action
NWA’s commitment to DEI and workforce development is evident in initiatives that provide training, leadership opportunities, and direct support to WIC staff. Some of the most impactful efforts include Registered Dietitian (RD) and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) scholarships for BIPOC WIC staff.
As part of these initiatives, NWA awarded subgrants to 12 WIC agencies in 2024 and 27 in 2023, supporting 19 dietetic interns and 66 IBCLC scholars over two years. These scholarships provided WIC staff with the resources to further their education and professional development, ultimately enhancing the quality of care available to WIC families.
In addition, during National Breastfeeding Month, NWA highlighted the dedication of WIC peer counselors, certified lactation educators, and IBCLCs through a national campaign. The response was overwhelming, with 83 nominations from across the U.S. and its territories! This exemplifies the passion and commitment of BIPOC WIC staff to make a difference in their communities.
Championing Black Maternal Health in the Fight for Health Equity
Black Maternal Health Week is a critical moment to shine a light on the disparities in maternal and infant health outcomes. Black women in the U.S. are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than White women—a reality that underlines the importance of WIC and NWA’s role in promoting health equity.
NWA’s Center for Innovative Practices in WIC (CIP-WIC) exemplifies this commitment. The team brings expertise in WIC-specific research, nutrition and breastfeeding services, innovation, and data analysis. Their work focuses on:
Diversifying and strengthening the WIC workforce
Expanding culturally responsive care
Centering racial and health equity in service delivery
As the CIP-WIC team explains,
.jpg)
Through initiatives like AHEAD 3.0, NWA uplifts the lived experiences of Black, Brown, and Indigenous WIC participants, advocating for policies that ensure services are inclusive, accessible, and culturally competent. We also continue to push for increased funding for WIC and a more diverse workforce equipped to serve every family with dignity and respect.
The Next Chapter for WIC’s Workforce and DEI
The future of WIC’s workforce depends on continued investment in diversity, equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive care. As we look ahead, NWA remains committed to applying key lessons from initiatives like AHEAD 2.0, reinforcing our efforts to ensure that WIC operates in a space where every participant and staff member feels a sense of belonging. In the words of the CIP-WIC team,
.jpg)
Through continued training, leadership development, and advocacy, NWA will continue empowering WIC staff, uplifting diverse voices, and working toward a more equitable public health system.
As we celebrate 40 years, we invite WIC agencies, staff, and stakeholders to join us in shaping the future of WIC - one where equity is not just a goal but a lived reality for every family!