On July 24, the NY Daily News reported that a city police officer is charging the NYPD with interference with her right to breast pump while at work to feed her baby. Although many states have laws that are friendlier to moms who are breastfeeding, implementation of those laws and policies are slow to catch on.
When President Obama signed the Affordable Care Act, the Fair Labor Standards Act was amended to require employers to provide break time for women who were expressing breast milk. New York state law is very similar to the federal law. According to the police officer who was refused time to pump, she was told that there was no one to relieve her on duty. The NYPD responded that “[t]he department is committed to permitting nursing mothers to express breast milk.” Breastfeeding advocates are surely watching the case.
Supporting Breastfeeding in Public
It seems strange that here in the 21st century, Americans would be “squeamish” about breastfeeding. Let’s not get into the debate over whether it’s better or not for the baby; let’s just agree that it’s a very natural method of feeding a baby that has many benefits for both mom and baby. Please note that you shouldn’t feel ashamed if you choose not to breastfeed, but that is another topic altogether. We can also agree that there are many people who feel uncomfortable around a mom who is breastfeeding. Everyone has a right to their own feelings. A mom has a right to feed her baby, even in public. Some believe that this is a natural human right. What’s inherently wrong is harassing a mom who is simply trying to take care of her child.
Legally, every state has different laws about breastfeeding. There are a number of websites that have updated information about each state, but in general, 49 states and the District of Columbia allow women to breastfeed in any public or private location. Idaho is the lone holdout, which is surprising because about 90 percent of moms there choose to breastfeed. This is about 15 percent higher than the national average. Another 27 states have specific laws relating to breastfeeding in the workplace. Women are protected against discrimination when they make the choice to breastfeed.
Why are there still reports of women being asked to leave a restaurant or shopping area when they’re breastfeeding? There are many theories, and scientists could spend years researching all the reasons people get offended when someone is breastfeeding. It is an unfamiliar sight that can make someone feel awkward, but it doesn’t have to. Moms, especially new moms, need support when they’re taking care of their babies. That mom may feel just as awkward as you, but she has a bigger purpose. Her baby has no other means of getting nutrition.
Ways to Help Moms
When you see someone breastfeeding in public, just keep going on with your business. Treat the mother just like you would if she were using a bottle to feed her baby. Don’t stare or judge. If she’s being harassed, stand up for her. Know the laws in your state. Ask her how you can help. Most of all, remain calm and clarify the situation. Best for Babes is tracking breastfeeding harassment to get more information about the problem in the United States. Friends and family members who witness harassment in public may want to strike back. Threats of having someone charged only escalate the situation. Take up the problem with management, a corporate office, or a local breastfeeding advocacy organization.
Moms who are feeding their babies need encouragement, not judgment or scorn. If you’re an employer, make sure women who are nursing have the facilities they need to pump breast milk if they’re choosing that route. If you’re a business owner, make sure you know the laws. Celebrate World Breastfeeding Week from August 1 through 7 to give babies a good start in life.