While the US pretends to be a progressive and educated society, we come up lacking when it comes to the basic needs of our young. This is clearly evident when the topic of breastfeeding comes up. US breastfeeding rates are abysmal, and the public view on nursing in public, and nursing in general, rank even lower. While evidence supports numerous benefits for child, mother, and society, breastfeeding support is lacking and breastfeeding mothers frequently are treated poorly. Many, including the two-faced individuals who claim that they support breastfeeding and yet vehemently exclaim that they shouldn’t have to see that, would have others believe that discrimination against breastfeeding mothers and rude comments are a mythical occurence. However, too many breastfeeding mothers can attest to discrimination and comments. Those instances that make it to the media are not isolated events.
How do we normalize breastfeeding against such ignorance and intolerance? Some mothers (and fathers) prepare and practice informative and/or witty comebacks. Some work towards educating the public. Others are setting the example, either with a purpose in mind or merely by meeting their children’s needs by nursing anytime and anywhere. While educating others, meeting our children’s needs, and protecting ourselves are all important aspects of normalizing breastfeeding, I think we are missing the one thing that will go the furthest: empowerment!
Most of us have received a negative comment (or more) about breastfeeding at some time or other. If not, there are the comments about us, said loudly enough to make certain we hear them. How often have we heard positive comments?
Nothing we say is going to change these people. Expecting a majority to band together to support a minority is unrealistic, at best. Instead, I call for solidarity! Support other nursing mothers you see out and about. Anyone can do this. A kind comment, a cheesy smile, or even a thumbs up to show support goes a long way. If nursing mothers and their support networks (husbands, partners, parents, siblings, children) band together, we can empower each other (and future nursing mothers) and make a change. Vow to make a small difference in the life of a nursing mother you don’t know.
living peacefully with children 
Agreed! Our society is so isolationist that we often fail to encourage mothers when we see them bf’ing. I always try to give nursing moms a big smile. If I see someone nursing with a cover, I often sit down and nurse without one – just so they know they’re not alone, should they feel the need to take the cover off. 🙂
When I see moms feeding babies in public and the moment is right, I do speak up in support. I appreciated it back when I nursed, too.
Good post!
Thanks for your contribution to the blog hop. It’s interesting because I’m currently writing on my personal experiences with positive feedback about my breastfeeding. It definitely empowers you to hear good things!