When Durham Technical Community College hosted its graduation ceremony at the Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC), one of our longtime volunteers, Lauren, was among the many professionals behind the scenes. But as a new parent and lactating mother, she found herself without a dignified, private space to pump. Instead, she was offered priority parking so she could pump in her car.
While that gesture aligned with legal guidance at the time, it wasn’t enough.
Lauren’s experience sparked a series of conversations between Breastfeed Durham, the City of Durham, and DPAC. We lifted up Lauren’s voice—not just as an individual parent, but as a representative of the many parents navigating work and parenting in public spaces that weren’t designed with them in mind.
Over the course of several months, we shared concerns, explored opportunities, and asked: What would a truly family-friendly DPAC look like?
We’re thrilled to share that DPAC now offers a private lactation space for guests attending performances or events. The new room is quiet, private, and includes a seating area designed with comfort in mind. According to DPAC’s Guest Experience Manager Ashley Morgan, “I do believe this new space would have met Lauren’s needs.”
Guests who need lactation accommodations can email Ashley at amorgan@dpacnc.com before attending an event for more information and instructions on how to access the space.
This progress was made possible because one parent spoke up—not just for herself, but for all families. We’re deeply proud of Lauren and grateful to DPAC for listening and responding with care.
We also encourage DPAC and other organizations to apply for the Breastfeeding Friendly Community Partner Award—a local recognition that honors businesses and institutions creating welcoming environments for lactating employees and patrons. Learn more and apply at breastfeeddurham.org/bus.
As Durham continues to build a culture of inclusion, DPAC’s new space is one more example of how meaningful change happens: through partnership, persistence, and the courage to ask for better.
