Breastfeeding provides the ultimate in nutrition to infants and offers up a bounty of health benefits to both baby and mother. Each August, mothers are empowered, informed, and celebrated during National Breastfeeding Month.
However, there are racial and ethnic disparities in breastfeeding.
Black Breastfeeding Week began as a way to address and explore those disparities and help close those gaps. Closing the gap is important because breastfeeding can improve a woman’s overall long-term health. Mothers who breastfeed have lower rates of certain cancers and lower rates of osteoporosis as they age. This year, Black Breastfeeding Week is August 25-31. Here are the reasons this week is important, and how you can support and participate.
What is Black Breastfeeding Week?
How to get involved in Black Breastfeeding Week and find support
Here are ways you can get involved in Black Breastfeeding Week and find support throughout the year.
4. Digital summits and live presentations on Instagram and Facebook can help you stay informed.
As a result of COVID-19 concerns, all festivities and events this year will be held virtually. Over the course of the week, check out the online schedule and support the efforts to normalize breastfeeding in the Black community. Participants can follow the hashtag #BBW20 across social media to stay informed.
5. Locate a Black Doula near you for information and support.
The National Black Doulas Association’s goal is to help fight the Black Maternal Mortality rate by connecting Black mothers with Black doulas who can offer support, education, and a sense of empowerment around all things childbirth, breastfeeding, and motherhood related. The organization is also a helpful resource for those interested in learning more about how to become a Doula.
6. Your local La Leche League Group can provide valuable resources.
La Leche League helps mothers breastfeed by offering one-on-one support ongoing education and encouragement. La Leche provides resources to help mothers understand the importance of breastfeeding for both mother and child. Locate a La Leche Group near you for information on additional resources, and meeting locations.
