6 Reasons Why Black Breastfeeding Week is a Must

You might be well-acquainted with the significance of Black Breastfeeding Week, or perhaps you’re new to the scene – either way, we’re here to unveil the incredible tapestry that defines this annual celebration. Spanning from August 25th to August 31st, Black Breastfeeding Week isn’t merely about breastfeeding; it’s a fusion of community, empowerment, and positive transformation.

1. Bridging Healthcare Disparities:

In a world where healthcare fairness isn’t guaranteed, Black mothers and babies often face obstacles and limited support. Shockingly, Black women are 2.5 times less likely to breastfeed compared to their white counterparts. Black Breastfeeding Week spotlights these disparities and stands as a voice for equal healthcare opportunities.

2. Embracing Culture, Connection, and Celebration:

The rich fabric of the Black community is interwoven with a heritage of breastfeeding. Black Breastfeeding Week becomes a canvas for honoring traditions, celebrating heritage, and nurturing connections through shared experiences.

3. Empowering Through Knowledge:

Knowledge is the ultimate superpower. Black Breastfeeding Week is all about arming you with the info you need to make informed choices about breastfeeding.  Did you know that Black mothers are nine times more likely to be presented with formula in hospitals compared to white mothers? When you know more you can do more – for both you and your precious baby.

4. Uniting for Support:

Mom life can be a wild ride, but it’s so much better when you’re not alone. Through sharing stories and experience, Black Breastfeeding Week creates a network of support that uplifts black mothers and families on their journeys. Here are a few amazing support groups specifically for Black mothers:

• Black Mothers Breastfeeding Association: Is a standout organization dedicated solely to aiding Black mothers on their nursing journey, they host a range of virtual conferences and events throughout the year.
• Kindred Space LA: Los Angeles-based and founded by two extraordinary Black midwives, Allegra Hill and Kimberley Durdin, this birthing center offers lactation support.
• La Leche League: La Leche League offers local and international support through in-person meetings, hotlines, and private Facebook groups available in both English and Spanish.
• African American Breastfeeding Network: Provides community peer counselors, advocacy and birth support
• Reaching Our Sisters Everywhere (ROSE) Inc.: This organization was founded to address breastfeeding disparities for communities of color.
• Breastfeeding Support Group for Black Moms: This Facebook support group has over 116,000 followers offer encouragement, support and evidence-based information through community and friendship to help expectant and nursing moms to reach their breastfeeding goals.

5. Barriers to Black Breastfeeding:

Black Breastfeeding Week exposes a critical issue often overlooked – the lack of resources accessible to Black mothers in their breastfeeding journeys. Here are a few barriers contributing to lower breastfeeding rates among Black moms:

• A lack of breastfeeding and lactation support in hospitals serving large Black populations, where formula tends to be favored over breastfeeding.
• Work situations that hinder breastfeeding due to inadequate time or supportive policies.
• A scarcity of local breastfeeding resources aligned with community needs.
• Limited access to quality breast pumps.

6. Cultivating a Healthier Future:

By celebrating Black Breastfeeding Week, we’re paving the way for a healthier future. According to the CDC, increased breastfeeding among black women could decrease infant mortality rates by as much as 50%! More breastfeeding, better health outcomes – its a win for black moms and babies everywhere.

Black Breastfeeding Week isn’t confined to a mere seven days; it’s a movement. It’s about rewriting narratives, celebrating unity, and advocating for what’s right. Join hands, share your stories, and let’s make a difference together.