When will society stop shaming mothers for breastfeeding in public? It’s disheartening to see that many still feel entitled to voice their discomfort, suggesting mothers cover up while feeding their children. This stigma creates a troubling environment for breastfeeding mothers, making them feel isolated and embarrassed.
Recently, a story shared on the Facebook page Breastfeeding Mama Talk highlighted an incident involving a mother named Jessica who was told she could no longer remain in a dance studio where she was watching her friend’s daughter perform, unless she covered herself while nursing her three-month-old baby.
“I found myself sitting in my car, crying while feeding my baby,” Jessica recounted. “Why am I outside in the heat instead of comfortably watching the dance recital? It’s simply because I chose to feed my baby without a cover.”
Some other mothers in the studio complained, claiming that her breastfeeding was inappropriate for the children present, leading to her being asked to leave. This begs the question: why is it considered wrong for kids to ask questions about breastfeeding? Instead of fostering a conversation about the natural act of feeding infants, Jessica was made to feel unwelcome.
“I’m discreet when I nurse. If you see anything, you’re looking too closely,” she expressed, feeling both angry and ostracized. This is precisely why platforms like Breastfeeding Mama Talk exist; they give voice to mothers who feel silenced. The page aims to remind mothers that they are not alone and that there are people globally who support them.
What’s particularly troubling about this situation is the setting—a dance studio meant to empower young girls. “What message are we sending to future generations of mothers?” Jessica asked. “It’s upsetting that a place claiming to uplift women would turn something as beautiful as breastfeeding into a source of shame.” She plans to approach the studio owner with information on Louisiana’s laws regarding public breastfeeding, hoping to prevent this from happening to others in the future.
For those interested in more parenting insights, check out this article from Tinkergarten on preparing for back-to-school safely. Additionally, if you’re curious about pregnancy-related topics, the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development offers excellent resources.
In summary, the stigma surrounding public breastfeeding needs to be addressed. Mothers should feel empowered, not shamed, for nurturing their children in any setting.