In a culture where breasts are ubiquitous, the notion of public breastfeeding continues to stir controversy. It’s puzzling that while society doesn’t bat an eye at the visual prominence of breasts, it becomes scandalous when they are used for their primary purpose: feeding infants.
The societal judgment surrounding breastfeeding can be overwhelming. New mothers often find themselves grappling with self-consciousness, facing scrutiny not only from strangers but from fellow moms as well. The barrage of headlines detailing women being shamed for breastfeeding in public only adds to the anxiety, making the act of nourishing a child feel like a public offense.
In a powerful short film titled “Embarrassed,” poet and spoken-word artist Clara Finch confronts this uncomfortable reality. In just over three minutes, she encapsulates the strange stigma surrounding breastfeeding in public. “I wrote this poem in a public restroom after my baby fell asleep,” Finch shared on her YouTube channel. “The first time I fed her in public, someone told me to stay home.” The implication? New mothers should be confined indoors just so society can feel at ease.
Finch candidly admits that for six months, she resorted to feeding her baby in restroom stalls when alone, a choice she deeply regrets. “I was anxious, exhausted, and felt out of place,” she reflects. “It’s astounding that neither our media nor our everyday lives showcase breastfeeding. It’s as if we’re terrified of it.”
It is indeed baffling. Why aren’t breastfeeding mothers featured in commercials or television shows? We can witness graphic violence on screen, yet a breastfeeding mother is deemed inappropriate. Just think of popular shows like The Walking Dead, where viewers can see gory scenes, but a simple act of nurturing is considered vulgar.
The discomfort surrounding public breastfeeding is absurd. Society preaches the importance of breastfeeding during pregnancy, only to shame women for doing so when the time comes. Why do we create a stigma around such a natural process?
When I nursed my first child, I was overly discreet, often to my own discomfort. I would layer myself with wraps and cover-ups, transforming the feeding into an ordeal. The fear of exposing a nipple overwhelmed me, despite my generally confident nature. The social pressure surrounding breastfeeding is real, and it’s crucial to continue addressing this absurdity.
Kudos to all those who made this video possible, bringing attention to an issue that desperately needs to be discussed.
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In summary, the stigma surrounding public breastfeeding remains a pressing issue that merits attention. While society is quick to normalize the portrayal of breasts in various contexts, the act of breastfeeding continues to be shamed. It’s time to celebrate this natural act and create a more supportive environment for nursing mothers everywhere.