As Black Breastfeeding Week approaches (August 25-31), this year’s theme, “Listen Up! Reclaiming Our Narrative & Centering Our Stories for Breastfeeding Justice,” calls us to reflect on and amplify the voices and experiences of Black breastfeeding families. Black Breastfeeding Week was established in 2014 by a dedicated group of Black leaders in the breastfeeding field: Kimberly Seals Allers, Kiddada Green, and Anayah Sangodele-Ayoka. This annual observance seeks to address and overcome the unique challenges faced by Black families in their breastfeeding journeys.
A Brief History
Black Breastfeeding Week was born out of a pressing need to address significant disparities in breastfeeding support and infant health outcomes. High Black infant mortality rates, limited diversity among lactation professionals, and cultural barriers have all contributed to a breastfeeding landscape that has not always adequately supported Black mothers and families. This week-long celebration aims to shine a light on these issues and advocate for greater equity and representation in breastfeeding support.
2024 Theme: Listen Up! Reclaiming Our Narrative & Centering Our Stories for Breastfeeding Justice
The theme for Black Breastfeeding Week 2024, “Listen Up! Reclaiming Our Narrative & Centering Our Stories for Breastfeeding Justice,” underscores the importance of actively listening to and valuing the experiences of Black breastfeeding families. By doing so, we can challenge stereotypes, address systemic barriers, and promote justice in breastfeeding support.
This year’s theme invites us to focus on several key areas:
- Amplifying Voices: It is essential to create platforms where Black breastfeeding parents can share their stories, challenges, and successes. By elevating these voices, we can foster a more inclusive conversation about breastfeeding and ensure that diverse experiences are represented.
- Addressing Systemic Barriers: The breastfeeding journey is often complicated by systemic issues such as limited access to culturally competent lactation support, healthcare disparities, and social inequities. We must advocate for changes that address these barriers and promote equitable access to breastfeeding resources.
- Celebrating Cultural Contributions: Black Breastfeeding Week is an opportunity to honor and respect the cultural practices and traditions related to breastfeeding within the Black community. By highlighting these practices, we can center ancestral wisdom, strengthen community bonds, and contribute to a more inclusive and appreciative dialogue.
What You Can Do
To support Black Breastfeeding Week and contribute to breastfeeding justice, consider taking the following actions:
- Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the unique challenges and cultural factors impacting Black breastfeeding families. Share this knowledge within your community to foster understanding and support.
- Support Black-Led Initiatives: Engage with and support organizations and initiatives led by Black professionals in the breastfeeding field. Their work is crucial in advancing breastfeeding equity and providing culturally relevant support.
- Listen and Learn: Make a conscious effort to listen to the experiences and stories of Black breastfeeding parents. Advocate for breastfeeding policies and practices that address their needs and promote breastfeeding justice.
Join the Movement
Throughout Black Breastfeeding Week, we encourage you to learn and participate in conversations, events, and activities that align with this year’s theme. Whether through social media, community gatherings, or personal actions, your engagement helps amplify the message and contribute to a more just and supportive environment for all breastfeeding families. As we celebrate Black Breastfeeding Week, let us honor the resilience, strength, and rich heritage of Black breastfeeding families. By listening up and standing together, we can contribute to a more inclusive and just environment for all breastfeeding families.
Feature Video: A Black Mother’s Breastfeeding Story
To bring the Black Breastfeeding Week theme to life, we are excited to re-share a powerful video that highlights the personal breastfeeding journey of a Breastfeed Durham community member. In this video, Brandice candidly shares her experiences, challenges, and triumphs as she navigated breastfeeding. Her story is a testament to the strength and resilience of Black mothers and provides invaluable insights into her unique breastfeeding journey. This video not only offers a personal perspective but also reinforces the importance of listening to and learning from Black breastfeeding families. It’s an important reminder of why it’s essential to support and uplift these voices as we work towards breastfeeding justice.