Women who breastfeed are constantly indecently exposing themselves. It really is quite offensive and someone should make it stop.
Look at this gal, did the modesty gene skip her?
Wait…Well, this is a bad example. Let’s try again.
Hmm…Just a minute. I’m sure I can find better ones than these…
Eh, still not offensive enough. I’ll check one more time.
That is better. LOOK AT THAT! I see about a half inch of boob. DISGUSTING.
UGH. Look at that indecency! She must be from some third world country to be exposed like that!
Now that’s just…There are no words to describe how inappropriate that is. Something needs to be done!
But why stop at breasfeeding women? There are boobs everywhere. Beware! If you thought the above photos were offensive, you WILL DEFINITELY be offended by the photos below.
Not this one, though. This one was in plain view on news stands and in mail boxes in 19 countries world wide!
Not this one, either. This one actually won an award!
Oh, and I guess this one is fine too. Everyone knows you can’t sell jeans without someone being topless.
Or beer, for that matter.
Or sunglasses.
Or movie tickets.
Or CDs!!!
You know something just isn’t right with the world when the first series of photos are seen as offensive yet the second series are applauded and paraded around the country for all the world to see.
People who live in glass bras:
Shouldn’t throw stones:
Which message is healthier?
Breastfeeding which is medically approved to give HUMANS the best start in life. . . or
Images that promote unnatural beauty standards, sexual promiscuity, plastic surgery, and just plain true indecency?
Which would you rather your daughter live up to?
If you think women have the right to breastfeed their children no matter where they are, please re-post this. Let’s support mothers in the most important health choice they make for their baby! Breastfed babies have lower instances of obesity, asthma, allergies, certain childhood diseases, learning disabilities, and other health problems. For each woman who feels like she shouldn’t be breastfeeding right where she is, there is an innocent baby who is losing out. Breasts were put there for a reason. And as pretty as they may be to some, their original purpose was intended for the sustenance of our young. Support breastfed babies and their right to eat in public like the rest of us.
If you loved this post, then you’ll love THIS!
The fifth image on this blog is courtesy of Imagery by Saci: Model Deshaine with son Jet.
September 12, 2007 at 12:48 pm |
Tara, that was awesome!
September 12, 2007 at 12:51 pm |
I breast fed all 4 of my children. It is a natural thing. How many ‘boobs’ in the other photos are natural??? hummm
Keep breastfeeding!!!!!! If people are offended it is their own dirty thoughts. It’s our God given right as Mom’s to provide this to our babies.
September 12, 2007 at 1:34 pm |
That was very well done! The magazine covers really drove the point home!!
September 12, 2007 at 8:45 pm |
FABULOUS!
September 12, 2007 at 11:26 pm |
Oh, great, great post. Definitely getsteh point across. But it comes back to the fact that it’s not the exposure of the breast that really bothers people, but is in fact the actual act of breastfeeding that offends people’s sensibilities.
September 13, 2007 at 2:16 am |
Not that you can see me…but I am giving you a standing ovation.
Well put!
September 13, 2007 at 8:32 am |
Great post,I don’t think it’s the act of breastfeeding that offends people, it’s the fact that breasts have been hyper-sexualised to a degree that anything to do with them is seen as sexual. I think this is what makes some people uncomfortable, but really that’s their own issues at work, and we as breastfeeding mums shouldn’t have to hide away just because many people have a distorted view of what our boobs are for! The more women who nurse in public, the more common a sight it will become…
September 13, 2007 at 3:02 pm |
“but is in fact the actual act of breastfeeding that offends people’s sensibilities.”
I’ve read a number of stories of women who were actually using a blanket to cover themselves who had people mouth off to them about doing “that” in public.
NIP is sooo important to ensure that once that lot of morons* dies off (while I have and will pray for a change in their hearts, I suspect death will be more effective) there isn’t a new batch to replace them.
*person with the logical abilities of an addlepated kumquat
September 13, 2007 at 6:47 pm |
Love it!
September 13, 2007 at 7:09 pm |
Absolutely perfect!
September 13, 2007 at 10:59 pm |
Loved it. Very, very well put
September 14, 2007 at 12:45 am |
It’s that “look” the models always have…”sultry” I suppose is the intent, but often it seems to me more like anger, unhappiness, anxiety, insincerity…. but a mother with a child at her breast? Peaceful. Content. Warm. Loving. Tender. Confident. Honest. Happy. Beautiful.
September 14, 2007 at 2:59 am |
Best ever! How can I put that on a sign?
September 14, 2007 at 3:18 am |
I love that! Thanks for putting this together.
September 14, 2007 at 3:54 am |
Oh that was great! You said it (and showed it) better than I could have. I just posted a link to your blog over on mine at http://blog.masslive.com/parentingproject/2007/09/indecent_exposure_breastfeedin.html.
Thanks!
Robin
September 14, 2007 at 4:34 am |
I’d say,not only is it our God given right, but our God given responsibility…to provide the food which flows from the body that they protected them for so many months. (pregnancy) I’m personally offended that some manufactures believe that they can have a formula that compares to a mama’s milk! BTW, I was gonna stop around two or so, but my son doesn’t agree…..so at 4 he’s still nursing….and he’s a healthy happy little boy!
September 14, 2007 at 1:48 pm |
Wonderful! I love to see people make this exact point! Its sad to say I can wear a shirt that shows more boob than I do when breastfeeding, yet my shirt will get “good” looks and my breastfeeding will get “distain”.
Good work!
September 14, 2007 at 1:56 pm |
I Just LLLove that, Very Well put!!!!!! I am A Pro-BREASTFEEDING Advocate And Will continue Breastfeeding MY 17month old son till HE weans Himself:)
September 14, 2007 at 3:49 pm |
LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
September 14, 2007 at 4:30 pm |
As my friend Greenfield says, “Pictures of breastfeeding on Myspace are indecent exposure, but not thirteen year old girls in their underwear. Fascism is fun!”
I wonder what would happen if I were to post this on Myspace ….
September 14, 2007 at 6:45 pm |
This is wonderful! Thank you so much for this. I’ve sent this link on to all my Mama friends!
September 14, 2007 at 6:48 pm |
2 Points for you, girl!! I’m far more discreet than those other pics, and occasionally cover up (to reduce child’s distraction) but people still frown. Thanks for the defense should the issue come up again!
September 14, 2007 at 7:46 pm |
If ever there was a complaint that deserved official filing, this is it. Great job.
September 14, 2007 at 9:59 pm |
Thank you! Thank you! Thank You!
September 14, 2007 at 10:03 pm |
I just think it is ok to do breastfeeding in some corner of the place. Cause this action meant to feeding Baby, not to expose.
September 14, 2007 at 10:04 pm |
Awesome post! I totally agree!
September 14, 2007 at 10:04 pm |
Well done! Great post against this insanity.
September 14, 2007 at 10:04 pm |
Well, I think you told them!!
I really loved this post.
September 14, 2007 at 10:05 pm |
LOVE IT!!!!
September 14, 2007 at 10:09 pm |
Hooray for Boobies!
September 14, 2007 at 10:09 pm |
You expressed my views exactly, but the photos really made your point. I’m still amazed at all the fuss about breastfeeding–so illogical!
September 14, 2007 at 10:14 pm |
[...] September 14th, 2007 · No Comments Love this post. [...]
September 14, 2007 at 10:15 pm |
VERY well said! I wish everyone would realize the nursing in public is NOT wrong nor is there anything indecent about it. I nursed my little girl for a little under 2 years and thankfully, it was rare that I came across an ill comment. Funny thing…it was usually strangers who smiled & nodded their approval while some ‘friends’ I’ve known for years looked down on it. Mindblowing, huh?!
Thank you for the wonderful post!
September 14, 2007 at 10:17 pm |
That was awesome, I actually was thrown out of a restaurant for breastfeeding my daughter. I think everyone should stop and look at this blog.
September 14, 2007 at 10:20 pm |
Images are so powerful when they’re used well. Brava!
September 14, 2007 at 10:26 pm |
Do you know that I love you for posting this ? LOL
Can’t believe that facebook is deleting breastfeeding pics because of…. obscenity !!!
September 14, 2007 at 10:27 pm |
That was awesome. I’m linking your post!!
Thanks!
September 14, 2007 at 10:32 pm |
You sure have a keen eye for absurdities. If we happen to be gifted with children as well as breasts, let’s be thankful – and proud!(I’ve breast-fed four, too.) And don’t forget, you can also supply breast-milk for those who can’t. Good luck to you! Helena Hildur W.
September 14, 2007 at 10:40 pm |
Loved that piece! Most women are on ur side honey! x
Much Love x
crazychicken21
September 14, 2007 at 11:00 pm |
Great job! I nursed my three year old in public recently. He was upset because he really, really, really wanted something, but couldn’t have it. And it wasn’t like I was being mean, it was a display model that wasn’t for sale. Poor kid. I am a big supporter of a mom’s right to nurse and a baby’s right to eat, no matter where they are.
September 15, 2007 at 1:07 am |
In London, England, I got told off all the time for breastfeeding my daughter – it just made me all the more determined to continue. However, the day I visited the Military College in Greenwich, I got some rather unexpected support. In one of the entrances to the chapel there is a statue of Mary breastfeeding Jesus – I sat in one of the pews and breastfed my daughter, telling myself that if it was good enough for Mary, it was certainly more than good enough for me! Breasts have definitely been highjacked by the “Sex sells anything” industry. I think we have to challenge daily how womens bodies are used in advertising and demand balanced and realistic images of people of all types and ages. I would like to see the images above published for a less enlightened audience – maybe, just maybe, some of them would get it??
September 15, 2007 at 1:30 am |
Right on!! I’ve nursed both my kids, and woe betide the person who tells me to a) cover up, or b) do it in the bathroom, or in some other place. I love this!! Great job! I’ve posted the link to this in my Facebook
September 15, 2007 at 3:10 am |
Every time I see a nursing mother I want to cheer. It shows me that the mother loves their child and is giving them the best they can to help their child thrive. Excellent!
September 15, 2007 at 4:10 pm |
Good job! This is already being passed around as a bulletin on MySpace.
September 15, 2007 at 4:21 pm |
I 100% agree! Even if some boob is showing in public oh well, my kid’s gotta eat. Get over it! Eating is not something we should have to hide or heaven forbid do in a bathroom! That is just wrong.
September 15, 2007 at 11:16 pm |
Awesome – well done for showing how it is.
September 15, 2007 at 11:19 pm |
Couln’t have been said better!!! What a mixed up world we live in! I’m a 56 yo mother of 9 who spent approx 15 years of her life breastfeeding. I loved it and wasn’t about to be put in 2nd class accommodations! My 31 yo old daughter is now a proud mother of 4 and 1 on the way and she too is proud and happy to breastfeed wherever and whenever!! Nurse on!!
Jan
September 15, 2007 at 11:30 pm |
bravo. Children have a right to eat when and where they are hungry, if others are offended they can put a blanket over their heads. If we all NIP now maybe our babies will have an easier time when they have children. Proud NIPing mama to 2 boys.
September 16, 2007 at 1:39 am |
Hon — thank you.
September 16, 2007 at 2:39 am |
Aw. Some. I’m linking this too.
September 16, 2007 at 2:28 pm |
I think the people who are offended by breastfeeding in public are ones who see only one purpose for breasts, and its not the one being displayed when a mother feeds her child. Somehow our society has forgotten that ALL MAMMALS feed their young milk from MAMMARY GLANDS (breasts). We need to see more women remembering the primary purpose of those things that hang off the front of us. I am proud to count myself a staunch supporter of women breastfeeding their children wherever and whenever they need to be fed.
September 16, 2007 at 2:46 pm |
Well done! I guess such a comparison never even crossed my mind but it makes perfect sense.
September 16, 2007 at 4:31 pm |
great job! i saw this posted on maya’s mom this other day too. i’m not sure where it originated, but it makes some great points.
thanks for fighting the good fight.
amy
September 16, 2007 at 5:00 pm |
Fantastic but how sad that this is how our culture works! It is usually my mother and father who appear embarassed about my nursing my daughter at 21 months old – I thankfully have not had any unpleasant comments but have been shown the bathroom / toilets on many occasions when I have asked if there is somewhere to feed my baby when out.
September 16, 2007 at 5:28 pm |
Wow.. that was awesome. A baby needs to eat and people frown on that.. uuggghhhh!
Sorry guys tits are for kids.. I always love this phrase. You go girl!!!! That was awesome!
Love: Boo
September 16, 2007 at 6:29 pm |
Followed a link from Wacky Mom- Excellent post!! When I was a high school teacher, I saw way more breast than I ever showed when nursing.
September 16, 2007 at 6:44 pm |
Perfect example of our insane culture and its tolerances! Boobs are wonderful so long as they don’t function as they’re intended – augh!
September 16, 2007 at 8:11 pm |
Wonderful! You’ve proven the point very well and visually, so even the stupid ones should understand!
September 16, 2007 at 8:43 pm |
Thank you for this fantastic post!
September 17, 2007 at 1:56 am |
I love this. I can’t wait to share it with many.
September 17, 2007 at 2:10 am |
Thanks for this! I’ve cited you on my blog.
September 17, 2007 at 7:22 am |
In hopes to secure my position as your truly and most udderly offensive friend.
September 17, 2007 at 7:22 am |
Nevermind, the picture didn’t show up. I’m sending it to your email.
September 17, 2007 at 11:23 am |
Fantastic! It’s about time the hypocrisy was dealt with.
September 17, 2007 at 12:25 pm |
What an astounding comparison!! Rocks!! I breastfed all of my children and I feel that it is a thing of beauty…Isn’t that why God Made breasts?
Hmmmmm
Thanks for sharing
September 17, 2007 at 7:05 pm |
This is great! Thanks, it gives us perspective on the issue. I have always said our culture wasn’t afraid of breasts, we just don’t know what to do with a child attatched to them. It doesn’t surprise me, the way our culture is becoming obsessed with negative headlines and indecent behaviour it seems appropriate we are uncomfortable witnessing a truely unselfish act of giving, nuturing and love such as breastfeeding.
September 17, 2007 at 7:43 pm |
Love it – thank you !
September 17, 2007 at 7:45 pm |
What an awesome post! And yes there is a TON of hypocrisy going on there. And its not often addressed. Thank you for this…
September 17, 2007 at 8:58 pm |
I think you are my hero! Well done and very true to the point of making rise out of my chair and hoot!
September 17, 2007 at 10:02 pm |
totally in favor of breastfeeding anywhere, anytime our babies are hungry. More than a mother’s right is our children’s right and necessesity to be fed.
September 17, 2007 at 11:23 pm |
You are sofa king AWESOME!! I am linking to this today, as a follow up to my post, “Boycott Bill Maher” of yesterday.
YOU RULE!!!
September 17, 2007 at 11:26 pm |
You are sofa king AWESOME!! I am linking to this today, as a follow up to my post, “Boycott Bill Maher” of yesterday.
YOU RULE!!!
September 18, 2007 at 12:15 am |
That was Awesome!!! Thank you! *slow clap*
September 18, 2007 at 1:29 am |
I completely agree. I just give dirty looks back when I nurse in public.
September 18, 2007 at 2:06 am |
AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks!
I’ve got my own two cents to put in: http://awholelotofnothing.net/?p=42
September 18, 2007 at 3:54 am |
Awesome!! VERY well done!
Thanks for sharing this!
Found you from Moms Speak Up, by the way.
September 18, 2007 at 11:42 am |
Absolutely brilliant. The pictures pretty much sum it up.
September 18, 2007 at 1:09 pm |
Are the citizens of the USA devolving? Next we’ll be bringing back electric shock therapy.
September 18, 2007 at 2:11 pm |
I couldn’t have said it better. {The pictures tell it all.}
September 18, 2007 at 3:33 pm |
Thank you for this post, this should be a commercial shown during prime time tv.
September 18, 2007 at 3:43 pm |
Perfect.
September 18, 2007 at 4:14 pm |
Love it. I so find the latter pics so wrong. Especially when my two boys and me are watching tv and something like this comes on. But the’ve saw their mom bf baby sis for sure. I was talked out of bfing them years ago. But an determined to bf her. If for no other reason than to make some people mad and prove I can. I wish there was some way I could print this and take it with me wherever I go. Great stuff. Thanks.
September 18, 2007 at 5:41 pm |
This has to be the best post on the whole breast feeding is obscene business.
I can’t breastfeed due to medical reasons (had a breast reduction that detached my nipples from my milk ducts). However, that doesn’t mean I think public breastfeeding is obscene.
Oh, and I love your blog design. Reminds me of my own, concidentally enough. Shows taste. And after this post, I’m going to be subscribing to you in bloglines.
September 18, 2007 at 6:46 pm |
FABULOUS POST! I wrote about this too last night and posted some of my breastfeeding photos. The one photo I could find of any actual breast was very similar to the last breastfeeding photo you posted.
Thanks for pointing out the hypocricy!
September 18, 2007 at 7:06 pm |
that was awesome. such a good way to point out our country’s obsession with boobs, and how ridiculous it is for people to raise a stink of any kind about the most natural thing on this earth…….a mother breastfeeding her baby!
maybe some of these celebrity moms will do a photoshoot of themselves and their babies to promote breastfeeding! gwen stefani, angelina jolie, naomi watts?
September 18, 2007 at 7:09 pm |
i was just thinking about a making a video, myself, of women breastfeeding juxtaposed with scenes from movie trailers shown on tv of the “torture porn” genre–like Hostel etc.
oh, the horror of a woman feeding her child
good job!
September 19, 2007 at 1:52 am |
Thank you!!
you are awesome:)
September 19, 2007 at 2:34 am |
Breastfeeding in public (warning – offensive content)
Sharp and hilarious post about the “offensive” nature of breastfeeding in public. More pictures of boobs than you can shake a stick at… but not what you expect.
September 19, 2007 at 2:38 am |
Perspective is exactly what we need on this issue. I love this post.
I’ve added you to my rolling blogroll of posts on this subject, as well as submitted your post to sk*rt and Stumble Upon. This is ridiculous, so the best way to approach it is with tongue in cheek and firmly planted feet.
September 19, 2007 at 2:53 am |
That was fucking excellent!
September 19, 2007 at 3:22 am |
Well Said!
September 19, 2007 at 3:43 pm |
That was GREAT!!! I have been wanting to do something like this but kept putting it off, Glad to see it done.
This world is so pathetic, I don’t know how on earth they justify saying breastfeeding is offensive and then seeing those disgusting pictures plastered everywhere in our society. What a bassackward world we live in!
RIGHT ON and THANKS for doing this!!! I hope it gets spread around and many people will see it!
September 19, 2007 at 3:51 pm |
You rock! I love this post. It has made my list of all time favorite posts.
September 19, 2007 at 4:39 pm |
I linked this post to my blog. Excellent.
September 19, 2007 at 5:48 pm |
I think there are good points made on both sides of the argument. On the one hand, I think we humans, pretty much everywhere in the world, have become ashamed of our bodies. It’s not just breast feeding we shouldn’t have a problem with, it’s every part of the body, male or female, that we shouldn’t have a problem with. That being said, a reality such as that hasn’t been true since native or indigenous cultures were the norm of human existence. The Native Americans were nude when Columbus arrived, and they thought nothing of it, and I’m sure they couldn’t have cared less about a woman breast feeding.
But, we live in western society. And as a matter of consistency, I think it’s reasonable for people not to want to see a random woman’s breasts. It’s no more unreasonable than not wanting to see some random man’s penis or not wanting to allow men to walk around a public mall shirtless. And Bill Mahr does make a good point, you could easily breast feed your child before you go to the mall or prepare a bottle, with breast milk in it if you wish, before you go out in public. It’s not other people’s fault if you don’t plan ahead. We all live together in this society that is so ashamed of our bodies, to not allow breast feeding in public is fair and consistent with all other laws telling us to cover up.
September 19, 2007 at 5:53 pm |
One last point. Many posters think there is nothing more natural in the world than a mother breast feeding her baby. But do you continue that train of thought to conclude that there is nothing more natural than our own bodies, male or female, and that there should be nothing wrong with our bodies being exposed?
September 19, 2007 at 5:58 pm |
haha wow, offensive alright. how funny! thats the truth though
September 19, 2007 at 6:23 pm |
Those pictures of blissful babies are so cute, I think my ovaries just jumped up and smacked me.
September 19, 2007 at 6:24 pm |
Breasts have a function. They feed our children. The REAL offense is when a mother gives her child a plastic bottle with a rubber nipple filled with a synthetic processed formula!
September 19, 2007 at 8:15 pm |
this post perfectly spells out how asinine this whole thing is…it’s just ridiculous!
September 19, 2007 at 10:41 pm |
THANK YOU!!!! that is such a good blog. Wonder why the newspapers and News stations don’t use this.
September 20, 2007 at 12:48 am |
This is genius. Perfect.
September 20, 2007 at 2:01 am |
Perfect! Just added a link to your article in my blog. Thank you!
September 20, 2007 at 12:58 pm |
To Bill….there are new studies that show that there are side effects to giving bottles INCLUDING bottles of human milk! Some of the basic neurological connections that babies brains make ONLY happen through physical contact, mostly while breastfeeding. Bottle feeding doesn’t do it.
Besides…not all mothers can succesfully express milk. And most babies cannot go longer than an hour and a half between feedings. Many go much less. It’s simply not feasible to only feed at home or bring bottles if you are nursing…one of the great advantages of nursing is that babies are completely portable, grab a diaper, and you are ready to go!
Allowing for optimal growth in children is MUCH more important than feeding into a societies hang ups about being ashamed of the their bodies!
It’s much to society’s benefit to support women nursing…if all children were breastfed for only a few months (3, for instance), we would save billions of dollars in health costs, lost work, and money saved on equipment…and that doesn’t take into account people’s happiness in having healthier, smarter kids, nor society’s benefit to having smarter kids!
You do know, don’t you, that there is not one law, not one, in any state, that outlaws breastfeeding in public. Some try to use general public decency laws to ban it, but it’s not what those laws were designed for (back when most were passed (pre-1930), most children were breastfed, in public!), and those uses are usually not successful.
September 20, 2007 at 1:31 pm |
Wonderful post! I’m glad there are still folks pushing to point out what seems obvious to those of us who have breasfed! What makes me sad is that I breastfed 28-30 years ago in the US; and my daughter (with a 1 year old nursing child) is still putting up with the ridiculous idea that our breasts are vulgar when used as food.
September 20, 2007 at 3:30 pm |
AWESOME does not contain it! Thanks for posting!
September 20, 2007 at 9:51 pm |
Thank you so much!!!! one of the best blogs I’ve read in ages!!!
If you don’t mind I’ll be passing it along to…..everyone!!
September 20, 2007 at 10:08 pm |
AMEN!
September 20, 2007 at 10:17 pm |
Wonderful work, mama!
September 20, 2007 at 10:21 pm |
Love it! Very nice photo essay. I will be posting this link on my facebook! Thanks.
September 20, 2007 at 11:33 pm |
This in answer to Bill’s comment.
I have several responses to your comments (and others like them). First, yes we should breastfeed as it is not about exposing our breasts it is about feeding our babies. Next, maybe if enough people did it, there would be a change to the aftermentioned issues with western society. Thirdly it is the constitutional right of our babies to be fed when they need it (therefore it does not fall under the same category as say, showing a penis in public). Finally, as for the pumping and putting it in a bottle I would estimate, based on observation, that about 20 – 30% of babies will NOT drink from a bottle – so I guess that the mothers’ of those babies sould just stay home until they are eating solids.
As for the original post – fantastic!! Apparantly western society only takes issues with breasts that have children attached to them.
September 21, 2007 at 5:52 pm |
FANTASTIC post. You nailed it.
September 21, 2007 at 6:31 pm |
Part of this is due to a major double standard that we have in life. It is ok to see a man with out a shirt but for a woman it is public exposure and when breastfeeding you have less of your breast showing than some women show in their bathing suits. I wonder what people think women were given breasts for, they are not just ornamentation they have a purpose.
September 21, 2007 at 7:26 pm |
I nursed all 5 of my sons. I did it because it was the best for my children’s health. Great job on pointing out that those who have a problem with it sure enjoy seeing the non lactating boobs. People need to find a new hobby. Focus on causes that really are ruining our enviroment & leave us to raise our children the best we can. It is hard enough without their negativity.
September 22, 2007 at 12:20 am |
Wow! Great post! I am pro-breastfeeding, which I had done it longer, but right on! My oldest is five and I breast fed her till I went back to work, I was only 19 and didn’t have much knowledge on breastfeeding. Then, I was 20 and had a set of twins and was definitely more determined… I breastfed them, and pumped and put breastmilk in a bottle (to make it easier on me, since I was going to college full time and such) I did it for six months though! Again, which I had done it longer, but any breastmilk is better than none!
Well, great post!!!!!
September 22, 2007 at 6:00 pm |
“think there are good points made on both sides of the argument. On the one hand, I think we humans, pretty much everywhere in the world, have become ashamed of our bodies. It’s not just breast feeding we shouldn’t have a problem with, it’s every part of the body, male or female, that we shouldn’t have a problem with. That being said, a reality such as that hasn’t been true since native or indigenous cultures were the norm of human existence. The Native Americans were nude when Columbus arrived, and they thought nothing of it, and I’m sure they couldn’t have cared less about a woman breast feeding.
But, we live in western society. And as a matter of consistency, I think it’s reasonable for people not to want to see a random woman’s breasts. It’s no more unreasonable than not wanting to see some random man’s penis or not wanting to allow men to walk around a public mall shirtless. And Bill Mahr does make a good point, you could easily breast feed your child before you go to the mall or prepare a bottle, with breast milk in it if you wish, before you go out in public. It’s not other people’s fault if you don’t plan ahead. We all live together in this society that is so ashamed of our bodies, to not allow breast feeding in public is fair and consistent with all other laws telling us to cover up.
Comment by Bill — September 19, 2007 @ 5:48 pm ”
Did you even read what this person wrote? Look at the pictures? It seems like people think seeing breasts is okay only when a baby is not on them. Breastfeeding would be consistent with all of the other laws. I see more boob on the beach, concerts, and in stores. A baby covers any of the OMG nipple. It’s kinda funny how you are okay with seeing some plastic nipple and not a real one. What if I wore plastic boobs filled with formula on my chest? If breastfeeding is comparable to whipping out your penis then bottle feeding is like bringing out your dildo.
September 22, 2007 at 10:22 pm |
We should always be modest. Including the
celebrities…who would not be be famous
if they were modest! It is always immodest
without exception to reveal the breasts.
I have never had to and no one has to! We
only reveal the breasts to ’show off’ and
be noticed. Same with tight tops.
September 23, 2007 at 4:34 pm |
awesome blog!
to bill-what, exactly, does seeing a man’s penis have to do with breastfeeding? yes, our bodies are natural, but there is an inherent difference between a man waggling his penis in the open air, and a woman exposing a bit of breast in order to nourish her child!
September 23, 2007 at 6:53 pm |
Hi
Someone sent me the link to this post – it’s simply brilliant! Can’t believe I’ve never read your blog before but am now subscribing to it
September 25, 2007 at 7:08 pm |
Brilliant! I’ve heard lots of people making this point about how hypocritical to complain about breastfeeding when breasts are seen as perfectly ok to use to sell magazine and other products, but this makes it in such a clear, witty and visual way. Should be shown on prime time tv and to kids in high schools.
September 25, 2007 at 11:14 pm |
The only problem I have with women breastfeeding in public is that it makes me want to toss one off. And sometimes you can’t find a good place to do it right away, so I have to squeeze one out undertheath the table in the restaurant. It just feels awkward after I finish.
Hey, here’s his e-mail!! Josh@bygosh.com
September 25, 2007 at 11:38 pm |
Awesome post. Thank you for putting that together. It’s amazing how twisted society can be.
September 26, 2007 at 1:48 am |
God made tits for me to fondle and admire, it is simply a coincidence that they produce milk after a woman gives birth!
Here’s this idiots e-mail as well gpurves@centurytel.net
September 26, 2007 at 1:49 am |
Last of all, why would any child still be on the breast at 21 months?
September 26, 2007 at 11:45 am |
Wake up, Facebook
Yesterday I deactivated my Facebook account. I also wrote them a letter explaining that I will be boycotting their services until they change their censorship policy and apologize for deleting photos of mothers breastfeeding their children. Nursing in …
September 26, 2007 at 1:40 pm |
to comment on the pig above saying that a women’s breats are only to be fondled, he’s wrong. God designed a woman’s breast to nurish her children AND to be a pleasure to her husband.
I have no problem with a woman breastfeeding her child. What does bother me are the women who feel entitled to do it in public, like at a restaurant or in the mall on one of the benches where everyone who walks by can’t help but notice what you’re doing. Breastfeeding is a non-sexual intimate bonding experience between a mother and her baby and doesn’t need to be broadcast to the public. If a breastfeeding mother is out getting errands done or out for whatever reason and it’s time for your baby to eat then please have the courtesy to do so somewhere a little more private. As far as advertising goes, there’s nothing that we can do about that because unfortunately those particular kinds of ads do sell whatever the product is. It’s a shame. But for you breastfeeding mothers out there is it so difficult to ask that you find somewhere else to nurse your baby rather than in broadview of everyone?
September 26, 2007 at 4:04 pm |
This is a wonderful commentary on our very twisted perceptions on breastfeeding. Thanks so much!
P.S. I am acutally nursing my baby while I type this message, no joke!
September 26, 2007 at 4:16 pm |
My younger brother nursed until he was 4 years old. I was also nursed as a baby. When I have kids, I’m planning on nursing them if possible.
Personally, as a sexual abuse survivor, I found many of those revealing pictures painful to look at (especially where the guy’s covering her breasts) but at most felt only very slight discomfort in the most revealing breastfeeding picture. Mostly I was interested in the baby, not the breast.
I don’t think we should be disapproving of bottle-feeding, however. Mothers are being constantly judged on their parenting for all sorts of reasons, and it’s just not fair. If you see a woman bottle-feeding their baby, remember that you don’t know their situation. For all you know, they may have some medical condition that makes it unsafe to breast-feed (eg cancer – chemo is bad for babies). They might be adoptive mothers or something like that. Their child might have a cleft palate or some such condition that makes nursing difficult. You just don’t know.
September 26, 2007 at 11:04 pm |
Nursing has been a warm and wonderful experience. I’m happy to be able to provide my baby with nutrition as well as immunity against illnesses. Never let the small-minded people bother you!
September 27, 2007 at 3:58 pm |
To Bill
I think there are good points made on both sides of the argument. On the one hand, I think we humans, pretty much everywhere in the world, have become ashamed of our bodies. It’s not just breast feeding we shouldn’t have a problem with, it’s every part of the body, male or female, that we shouldn’t have a problem with. That being said, a reality such as that hasn’t been true since native or indigenous cultures were the norm of human existence. The Native Americans were nude when Columbus arrived, and they thought nothing of it, and I’m sure they couldn’t have cared less about a woman breast feeding.
Actually, in most other countries, they don’t give a fig. My British friends never commented, and so many people from other cultures just plain can’t figure out what the big deal is. It’s not uncommon to see women in other countries… even Muslim countries! Nursing their children.
But, we live in western society. And as a matter of consistency, I think it’s reasonable for people not to want to see a random woman’s breasts.
Of course not. But when a mother is nursing, there is nothing to see. Really. Oh, you might get a flash of nipple now and again, but unless a mother is being deliberately exhibitionist (and I frequent places where nursing moms gather… I have NEVER seen this, not in two years of being a nursing mother) you’re going to see the back of a child’s head.
There is no right to not be offended protected in the constitution. However, in the majority of states, a mother’s right to nurse her child wherever they are both permitted to be is protected by law.
It’s no more unreasonable than not wanting to see some random man’s penis or not wanting to allow men to walk around a public mall shirtless.
No comparison to the former; One is illegal, the other is not. I personally have no problem with men walking around topless, and incidentally, many places in other countries (at least one province in Canada, for example) permits women to do the same.
And Bill Mahr does make a good point, you could easily breast feed your child before you go to the mall or prepare a bottle, with breast milk in it if you wish, before you go out in public. It’s not other people’s fault if you don’t plan ahead.
Actually, it has nothing to do with planning ahead. I live 30 minutes away from my mall. That’s an hour round trip. My child nursed every hour and a half to two hours. If I go to the mall (for example), I’m generally there for at least an hour or more… especially if I have to eat.
As for pumping? Many women can’t pump at all. I wasn’t one of them, but my daughter refused to accept a bottle. I could shove one in her mouth all I wanted, but she was just going to sit there and squall. Why should she want cold or lukewarm old milk when she can have it right from the tap, and it’s RIGHT THERE? In an infant that is too young, providing a bottle too soon can actually sabotage the nursing relationship, by causing nipple confusion or preference. So do you honestly think a mother should risk completely ruining her nursing relationship just on the off chance some random prude is offended by the back of her child’s head?
I. Think. Not.
We all live together in this society that is so ashamed of our bodies, to not allow breast feeding in public is fair and consistent with all other laws telling us to cover up.
Oh, I see, so just because some people are offended by the act of feeding a child, my child should have to suffer? The choice is yours, my friend: A screaming, hungry infant wailing at the top of her lungs, who doesn’t understand why mommy isn’t feeding her -now-, or us quietly sitting, minding our own business, eating.
Which is more disturbing to your day?
I always carry a blanket with me. Not for my daughter, since she refused to nurse under a cover from day one… but for those who need it to cover their heads so that they are never permitted to see anything potentially offensive.
Personally, I’d like to not have to see fat women in spandex, or hairy-shouldered guys in wife-beaters, but you won’t see me walking up to them asking them to cover up.
The point is, as adults, we are all responsible for our own comfort levels. When you grew up, you stopped needing mommy to protect you from things that make you uncomfortable. As a mother, I am responsible for my own comfort, and that of my child. My child’s supercedes my own, so when she is hungry, I WILL feed her. I’m not responsible for the comfort of those around me. I’m considerate enough by not making a big deal out of it, by not exposing more than I have to, and by not letting her scream. You can be considerate enough to mind your own business.
September 27, 2007 at 7:30 pm |
HOW AWESOME IS THAT!!!!My 16th year of nursing nonstop is coming up on Oct 10th. Praise God I have never had to hear a negative word about me doing it in public but oh boy if looks could kill I would be dead a 1000 times LOL.
Posted 9/27/2007 12:34 PM by coolmomofeight
September 30, 2007 at 7:50 pm |
To Jamie- God gave you eyelids and a neck, use em.
October 1, 2007 at 8:08 am |
Fantastic post–great job! Brava!
I’m not a mother, but I totally support my sister NIP and our mom BF us and our siblings for years. Hooray for Breastfeeding!
October 2, 2007 at 11:05 pm |
wonderfull, this should be a national campaign advertisement for breastfeeding mothers and the ignorance we experience because of our natural nature towards feeding our babies. Everyone breastfeed in public no matter what looks or comments you recieve, you are all doing a brilliant job!!!
October 5, 2007 at 1:05 am |
This was the most eye opening response on the matter I’ve ever seen. I nursed my children and am glad I did. I gave them the best start in life I could.
October 5, 2007 at 10:09 am |
Respective people,
Breast feeding is the pure relation between mother and her kids, why to see it as exposure? If it is public then that mother should take care of it but there is no need to make any comments on the mothers who are feeding to children instead we should respect.
October 6, 2007 at 1:06 pm |
Thanks for post.. fantastic. Does put it all into perspective doesn’t it..
Sad to see there are a couple of comments from the misinformed of the world.
DSvT.. I can find a corner to feed my child so some poor souls eyes won’t pop out at the thought or God forbid the sight of a child feeding. I think that corner is reserved for those folks who can’t stand to see the light, enjoy it while my child and I sit and enjoy the view.. stuff those who are offended – not my problem.
and BILL what can I say, Bill Bill Bill… get over yourself. How offensive can you be. Your body after many years is regulated. You can plan all you like Bill but when that there baby of mine wants a feed and I’m refusing because I didn’t PLAN it I’m sure you’ll sit next to me and listen to the SCREAMS as STARVATION starts.. good idea. Good plan BILL.
Jamie – you are sort of on the right track but so way off base ….. in fact you contradict yourself. You agree it’s good as long as you aren’t put off your food, don’t have to walk past and see nature at it’s most primal. OMG Maybe you should walk down the other side of the street where the addicts are shooting up, the drug sales happen, those folks being bashed are and I’m sure you will feel so much better…!!
Why is it still about the mothers right to breastfeed though? Isn’t it really about a child’s right to the most natural and beneficial food?
October 15, 2007 at 9:39 pm |
Although I didn’t nurse in public (personal decision), I didn’t have a problem with others choosing to do it – as most were discreet like you pointed out. I love how you compared it to the magazine covers and ads! Isn’t it amazing how it is sending a “sexual image” when you are breastfeeding, but apparently just smart marketing when you advertise using breasts? Very cute blog article!
October 18, 2007 at 7:01 pm |
I wish to publicly apologize for my previous post. I am sick with regret and hope that I did not hurt anyone! My thought for the day “Think b4 you post!”
December 4, 2007 at 5:13 am |
What a wonderful post! A mother recently shared a story with me in which the people at church were “offended” and complained” because they could see part of her lower back while she nurses her baby in church *with a blanket covering his head and her breast.* That little strip of skin that is exposed when a nursing mama lifts her shirt to nurse. Now THAT is truly offensive! LOL! ::sob::
Molly
December 15, 2007 at 11:17 am |
[...] Nicely put. [...]
December 19, 2007 at 5:49 am |
[...] I found the perfect visual representation of breastfeeding here. If you are against it or for it, you should check it out. It proves a very valid statement. [...]
January 17, 2008 at 7:02 pm |
It was very gratifying to see this post! As an aside to the person that compared a nursing woman’s breast to a man whipping out his penis in public, I just want to point out that breasts are NOT a sex organ. Men have breasts, too (they prefer to call them “pecs”). The fact that you and others associate female breasts with sex is not a nursing mother’s problem. If men can take off their shirts to play basketball, women can lift up their shirts to feed a baby.
April 11, 2008 at 5:24 am |
I love it!
May 22, 2008 at 1:54 am |
lol I *love* it! So true, we can use breasts to sell anything under the sun but for goodness sake, don’t use them for their true purpose!!! Whatever. *rolls eyes* Great post!
July 26, 2008 at 1:15 am |
I really have to re-post this to my Myspace account. Thank you for posting those disgusting exhibitionist militant nursing moms who have the audacity to model positive health behaviors!
September 9, 2008 at 12:25 pm |
Thank goodness,
Someone who sees sense! There is nothing more irksome than a mother accused of indecency feeding her child, when celebrities, and marketers internationally flaunt the breast in such a sexually derogative way.
Congratulations on a brilliant post!
October 29, 2008 at 11:07 pm |
Heh. Nice. Are you playing with my bronze sink I have a nice joke for you) What kind of tree has hands? A palm tree.
November 2, 2008 at 11:17 am |
Thank you for your website
I made on photoshop backgrounds for myspace and youtube and whatever
my backgrounds:http://tinyurl.com/5fmh8q
all the best and thank you again!
January 25, 2009 at 5:57 am |
This is such a good point. I was personally surprised to hear that this was such a controversial issue because my mother breastfed all six of her children and it was natural to me to see it. How sad it is that now I have to feel like hiding in shame when my darling daughter is hungry for the milk God provided for her. Very well done, thanks for posting this!
March 29, 2009 at 12:41 am |
Hello!
Very Interesting post! Thank you for such interesting resource!
PS: Sorry for my bad english, I’v just started to learn this language
See you!
Your, Raiul Baztepo