Finally embracing the social networking sphere, I noticed that there is a circulating petition on Facebook. People’s photos with a child in the act of breastfeeding has been labeled “obscene” by the powers that be at Facebook.
This speaks to a larger social issue. Mainstream media has a difficult time embracing breasts as anything but sexual, despite the fact that they have played a crucial role in our species’ survival.
Fortunately, there are groups advocating for the revealing of breastfeeding in mainstream media. ProMoM has joined the Facebook causes, and thanks to our very own Robin, they are gaining in numbers.
There are advocacy groups that have lobbied for breastfeeding for many years. La Leche League has a list of advocacy organizations, from state to international. I encourage you to see if there is an organization you can join. Additionally, National Alliance for Breastfeeding Advocacy has a good description of what an activist/lobbyist can do. ProMoM’s website is undergoing some construction, but they have a 3-minute advocate link, which is enough time to fill out an on-line form or to make a phone call voicing your support for breastfeeding.
If you’re looking for another approach to being a “lactivist,” there are always products you can buy to display your view. Or you can get crafty and make some breastfeeding-friendly washcloths. There are options for everyone, and every mother advocates for breastfeeding each time she helps her child latch on.
It’s today – don’t forget!