Earlier this month a photo of black women breastfeeding went viral on the web. When the gossip site The Shaderoom posted it on Instagram many of the comments were mixed, both positive and negative. As a mother who has breastfed, both in private and in public on multiple occasions, I was disheartened to see the negative comments. I think it’s terrible that Nickie Minaj can cover Paper Magazine with only pasties covering her nipples and no one bat an eye, but if a mother is photographed feeding her child (showing much less) everyone loses their mind.
The photograph was taken to further the normalization of breastfeeding and to show diversity. Black women have the lowest numbers of breasting feeding amongst all US racial groups. This is why photographs like this are needed. As long as women are being shamed online and in real life for doing what they were born to do, we have a problem.
XO Necole writes:
“A goddess-themed photoshoot featuring nine Alabama mothers has gone viral, spreading a powerful message about black women who breastfeed.
While most people are aware of the many health benefits associated with breastfeeding, there are so many stigmas surrounding the act that make it seem as if it is is something to be ashamed of. Women must shield themselves and their child in public places, or step into a family restroom right quick – just to feed her child. Culturally, the comfort of others takes precedence over the important work she’s doing. But why should it?
“Stop treating breastfeeding like it’s some dirty shameful act that people should keep hidden and stop doing as soon as possible. Breastfeeding is an amazing part of life and should be celebrated, not treated like some dirty little secret,” one of the mothers, Charity Moore told Yahoo! Lifestyle.”
