As we celebrate Black History Month, Breastfeed Durham and the Black Breastfeeding Coalition are proud to highlight the invaluable contributions of Black women to the fields of lactation and birthing equity. Their legacy, rooted in resilience and empowerment, underscores the importance of addressing maternal and infant health through an intersectional framework. This perspective recognizes the compounded effects of race, gender, socioeconomic status, and more on health outcomes, guiding our efforts to build a more inclusive and supportive community for all mothers and babies.
Embracing Intersectionality: The Path Forward
Intersectionality, a term coined by Kimberlé Crenshaw, helps us understand the multifaceted experiences of Black women and the unique challenges they face. Breastfeed Durham and the Black Breastfeeding Coalition are committed to this approach, recognizing that solutions must be as complex as the issues at hand. Our work is dedicated to dismantling the barriers to breastfeeding support and maternal care that Black women disproportionately face, advocating for systemic changes that honor and meet their diverse needs.
The Legacy of Black Women in Lactation and Birth Work
Black women have historically been at the forefront of lactation and birthing practices, offering wisdom and care that have sustained generations. Today, we celebrate modern-day heroes who continue this tradition. Through the Black Breastfeeding Coalition, Breastfeed Durham amplifies the voices of Black lactation consultants, doulas, and healthcare professionals, acknowledging their critical role in advancing health equity and providing culturally responsive support.
Breastfeed Durham, the Black Breastfeeding Coalition, and USBC: A United Front
Together, Breastfeed Durham and the Black Breastfeeding Coalition are working to bridge gaps in breastfeeding support and maternal healthcare. Our initiatives focus on:
- Cultural Competency Training: Educating healthcare providers on the importance of culturally sensitive care to improve the experiences and outcomes for Black mothers.
- Community Support Networks: Creating spaces where Black women can find support, share their experiences, and access resources tailored to their needs.
- Advocacy and Awareness: Raising awareness about the disparities in maternal and infant health and advocating for policies that promote equity and justice.
The USBC hosts a webpage for the month with a curated selection of infant feeding news and resources. Celebrate breastfeeding during Black History Month with us by sharing relevant materials and tools that can be amplified on the USBC webpage. By working together to raise awareness about Black maternal, infant, and child health and bringing to light community priorities, strengths, and assets, we can better support families and advance health equity.
Our Call to Action
This Black History Month, we invite our community to join us in celebrating the contributions of Black women to lactation and birthing equity. We also recognize the work still needed to ensure every mother and baby has the support they need to thrive. Here’s how you can help:
- Educate and Engage: Learn about the intersectional challenges facing Black mothers and share this knowledge to foster a more informed and empathetic community.
- Support Black-Led Initiatives: Your time, donations, and voice can make a difference in supporting organizations and programs that directly impact Black mothers and their families.
- Advocate for Change: Help us advocate for policy changes that address the systemic inequities affecting maternal and infant health.
As we honor the legacy of Black women in lactation and birthing equity, Breastfeed Durham and the Black Breastfeeding Coalition remain dedicated to their mission of ensuring all families have the support and care they deserve. This Black History Month, let’s commit to understanding, supporting, and advocating for the intersectional needs of our community, inspired by the enduring spirit and contributions of Black women.