North Carolina youth group held 'abortion doula' trainings for minors

Controversial trainings for 14-year-olds raise concerns over access to reproductive healthcare

Mar. 29, 2026 at 6:07pm

A youth organization in Charlotte, North Carolina has come under scrutiny for hosting 'abortion doula' trainings at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, with the target audience including 14-year-old minors. The trainings aimed to provide support and resources for those seeking abortions, sparking debate over the appropriate age and access to such services.

Why it matters

This story highlights the ongoing tensions around reproductive rights and access to healthcare, especially for minors. The training of young people as 'abortion doulas' raises questions about parental consent, the role of youth organizations, and the boundaries of reproductive education and support services.

The details

The trainings, organized by a local youth group, took place in November at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte campus. The target audience included 14-year-olds, who were taught about providing emotional, practical, and spiritual support to those seeking abortions. The group defended the trainings as an important way to empower young people and increase access to reproductive healthcare, but critics argue that minors should not be involved in such sensitive and controversial topics without parental consent.

  • The trainings took place in November 2026 at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

The players

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

A public research university located in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Local youth group

The organizers of the 'abortion doula' trainings for minors.

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What they’re saying

“These trainings are an important way to empower young people and increase access to reproductive healthcare.”

— Youth group organizer

“Minors should not be involved in such sensitive and controversial topics without parental consent.”

— Critic

The takeaway

This story highlights the ongoing debate around reproductive rights and the appropriate age and access for minors to receive information and support related to abortion services. It raises questions about the role of youth organizations, parental consent, and the boundaries of reproductive healthcare education.