Welcome to the Globe’s SLCC Talks. A new column where the Globe staff answers questions that our readers send in.
Subjects, questions and responses are found online via our Facebook page, Twitter, or even our own website at GlobeSLCC.com.
In this edition of SLCC Talks we talk about public breastfeeding
“Public breastfeeding is something that has been around for a while, but some people take offense to it. However some cities and companies provide breastfeeding areas? What are your thoughts on the matter, especially relating to doing that on campus?”
Jessica Bustamante (Staff Writer)
I don’t understand why people make such a big deal about breastfeeding in public. Breastfeeding is natural and normal, and mothers should be supported in their efforts to give their babies the best nutrition possible. SLCC’s dress code is pretty open to interpretation, and I’ve seen plenty of cleavage on campus over the last three years. If you didn’t already know, cleavage is about all you will see if you happen upon a nursing mother. Actually, you might see some mid-drift if you’re lucky. Come one, smoking is way more offensive than a woman taking care of her child.
Jessica Stewart (Staff Writer)
I’ve never understood why people find breastfeeding offensive. It’s something that can be avoided by simply turning away. I breastfed my son for over a year—I was lucky enough to catch the occasional pervert trying to take a peak, which is why I think that breastfeeding areas are great, but they shouldn’t be required.
A woman should have the right to feed her child in whatever form she may choose, whether it’s from a breast or a bottle. Those who find it offensive should ask themselves what they’d prefer: a screaming baby, or the possibility of seeing a breast. I think they’ll find that the second option is much better than the first.
Shad Engkilterra (Assistant Editor)
Breastfeeding is a public good. Children who are breastfed experience fewer illnesses, have higher IQs and are more likely to be able to form emotional attachments and experience empathy.
That means that breastfeeding children saves money in healthcare costs and generates happiness when they use their higher intelligence and empathy to create a better world.
Not only does breastfreeding help the child, it also helps the mother. Breastfeeding has been shown to increase attachment and reduce postpartum depression. Women who breastfeed their children are less likely to get breast cancer.
The family saves money and does not enrich the pockets of an industry that has helped to kill millions of children in third world countries through disease and malnourishment.
Women who are breastfeeding their children should be allowed to do so anytime and anyplace that they want. Those who choose to be offended by a practice that offers health in spirit, body and finances should look inside themselves and ask what it is about the natural process of motherhood that truly offends them. When they discover the answer, they will seek to change.
Be sure to ask us your questions online via GlobeSLCC.com, facebook.com/masscommcenter, and on twitter at @GlobeSLCC. Be sure to use the hashtag #SLCCTalks
Also, be sure to let us know what your opinion on breastfeeding is.
