Dude, they're just breasts! Get over it!
In a show of solidarity with some other cool mommy bloggers out there, to say that I think the campaign to increase breastfeeding rates in the US is a good idea, but that the method of doing it (by accusing bottle-feeders of poisoning their children) is a bad idea. How about instead of taking a negative approach to a situation that is already fraught with negativity and challenges, we focus on the positive? For instance, try to change the image of breastfeeding in this country from being obscene to natural? SomeoneJen over at Scribbler's suggested posting pics of breastfeeding. Sounds good to me.
So I take this moment to up the visibility of breastfeeding. This is all about making it more socially acceptable to women, but also to all those uptight dudes out there who think that breasts should be hidden unless they are there for the male gaze.
So, with all that out, here's Quinn nursing (in a shot that I hope won't jeopardize my anonymity too much).
Doesn't that just make you hott?
So I take this moment to up the visibility of breastfeeding. This is all about making it more socially acceptable to women, but also to all those uptight dudes out there who think that breasts should be hidden unless they are there for the male gaze.
So, with all that out, here's Quinn nursing (in a shot that I hope won't jeopardize my anonymity too much).
Doesn't that just make you hott?
posted by Courtney at 5:16 PM
15 Comments:
Questions:
1. You really don't know how pseudonymity works, do you?
2. Which kid is that?
3. Uptight males? Where?
Ross: Look, would you guys grow up? This is the most natural, beautiful thing in the world.
Joey: Yeah, we know, but there's a baby sucking on it.
*Applause*
I don't think I have a shot with my face in it, but I'll see what I can do...
N, so you're saying you would be able to identify me on the street based on this photo?
I mean, assuming that you haven't known me for 12 years.
The problem with all these photos of breastfeeding women is that it's making me jealous. (My youngest child is eleven.) I can practically feel the letdown reflex ....
I miss breastfeeding.
Let's assume I don't know you. Here's my point: I'm more likely to identify you on the street because you posted this picture than I would if you hadn't posted it.
Maybe I'm the wrong audience here because (1) I do know you, and (2) breastfeeding isn't a big deal to me. (Letting kids run wild is probably a more egregious public offense.)
In Tucson, it's illegal to eject someone from public property (Parks, restruants, etc.) because they are breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding is awesome, mainly because I don't have to do it. I get to sleep in (Yes!), and with Daddy Day tomorrow, Double Hooray!
Good for you for posting the pic, and I don't think it's too identifying, but I also don't think it's that big a deal anymore. In Tucson, only older, senior women seem to be uncomfortable with it, and they'll be gone soon enough.
Yay you! My photo is up now too.
:) I don't have any decent shots of me breast feeding (mostly I had a blanket thing draped over us for privacy)
I love the direction you are going with this... I hate it when people take issue with formula - some women simply have no choice (either due to their own body restrictions or possible food allergy problems with the baby) and they end up feeling terrible that they aren't breast feeding. An emphasis on breast feeding does not need to negate the use of formula.
Another thing I noticed... the new pro-breastfeeding ads I've seen on TV don't actually show breastfeeding. And c'mon, you can show the act without showing nipple if you're worried about the whole Janet Jackson crap. (Although that brings me to the point... dude, they're just nipples. Get over it.)
At least show a woman with a blanket over her shoulder and cute little feet kicking out.
At least show a woman with a blanket over her shoulder and cute little feet kicking out.
Sorry. It would look like smothering.
I'm not really sure if breastfeeding needs a PR campaign. But if there's going to be one, nipples need not be shown, but you can't be afraid to show a little tissue. Surely the ad makers can avoid the FCC by applying for some sort of educational National Geographic exemption.
This is such a great idea. I also hate that breastfeeding advocacy so often turns into an negative attack. As long as babies are loved and nourished and mothers are happy and healthy, then it's all good. I've posted my picture on my NEW blog. Come see!
I found a pic I could post in my scrapbbok (I knew I had one somewhere!)
The original commenter from PS's place, Jen Ponderosa put up her pic, and I have to add it's one of the most beautiful I've ever seen. Yay mommies! Thanks for making this so much fun.
YAY :)!
I have this cockamamie theory that if the next generation of babies is (mostly) breastfed (unlike with our generation and the one before us), the way-much breast-fixation thing will lessen. (Husband, it will be noted, thought I was insane for even thinking it ;). )
I agree, kr. That theory is cockamamie.
It would be nice if it were true, but don't underestimate the hypocrisy of your standard sexist. When it comes to breasts, they're simultaneously fascinated and frightened.
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