The Breastfeeding Protection Initiative

Every mother should have the right to breastfeed her child Anywhere, Anyplace, Anytime with confidence and without harassment. Yet today, there are still many places that do not offer mothers this protection. There is so much to be done to change the way society views breastfeeding.

To try to raise funds to combat these types of situations through education and awareness of breastfeeding rights, La Leche League International and Lansinoh Laboratories have partnered for the the launch of The Breastfeeding Protection Initiative with the Encourage, Support, Protect Breastfeeding cause bracelets.

Funds raised for The Breastfeeding Protection Initiative will be specifically earmarked and used by La Leche League to continue to provide people with current information on breastfeeding rights and legislation. Materials, such as letters to governmental representatives and business leaders, will also be made available to enable citizens to enact change in their communities. In addition, they will continue to provide information, links, and resources on their website at www.lalecheleague.org

Why The Breastfeeding Protection Initiative Is Needed

There is growing scientific evidence documenting the protective health, economic and societal benefits of breastfeeding. Yet, mothers are still not able to breastfeed freely anywhere, anyplace, or anytime their babies are hungry.

It is difficult to believe that mothers and children are subjected to humiliation and embarrassment, especially when breastfeeding in public. While there has been progress in proposing and passing breastfeeding legislation, there is a general lack of awareness and serious misinterpretation of those rights and laws.

Because even where there are laws, there are still incidents when mothers are asked to stop breastfeeding in public or told to breastfeed their children in the restroom. It is not enough to propose or enact legislation. Education, awareness, and implementation are key in ensuring that rights are enforced, pending legislation is passed, and future legislation is proposed.

We are hopeful that The Breastfeeding Protection Initiative will be instrumental in supporting and expanding these activities.