2020 County of Durham Proclamation

On Monday, April 13, 2020, the Durham Board of County Commissioners proclaimed Durham County a BREASTFEEDING FRIENDLY FAMILY COMMUNITY! In this post-COVID world, we viewed the meeting on the Durham Television Network (DTN) Channel 8, via YouTube at www.youtube.com/DCoWebmaster, and via the DCo website

PROCLAMATION – BREASTFEEDING FAMILY FRIENDLY COMMUNITY

WHEREAS, families are a priority in Durham, and part of helping families to thrive is ensuring that they receive community support to develop and sustain healthy lifestyles; and

WHEREAS, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, American Dietetic Association, American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, American Academy of Family Physicians, and other leading health organizations, breastfeeding is the optimal food for infants; and

WHEREAS, a mother’s decision to breastfeed her baby should be supported by her family and community; and

WHEREAS, breastfeeding is associated with lower rates of childhood illness, such as obesity, diabetes, and infectious diseases, as well as reduced risk of maternal breast and ovarian cancers and a faster recovery from childbirth as compared to formula feeding; and

WHEREAS, breastfeeding promotes maternal-infant bonding, benefits the entire family, and is associated with lifelong health and development; and

WHEREAS, collaborating with healthcare providers and community resources can positively impact breastfeeding success; and

WHEREAS, a breastfeeding friendly community encourages families of all races and ethnicities to continue breastfeeding by providing a supportive and welcoming environment.

NOW THEREFORE I, Wendy Jacobs, Chair of the Durham Board of County Commissioners, and on behalf of the Durham Board of County Commissioners do hereby proclaim Durham County as a

BREASTFEEDING FAMILY FRIENDLY COMMUNITY

This the 13th day of April 2020

Wendy Jacobs, Chair

Durham Board of County Commissioners