Who started Black Breastfeeding Week?

Introduction
Black Breastfeeding Week has become a pivotal event in the conversation surrounding breastfeeding, maternal health, and the unique challenges faced by Black mothers. Established to celebrate and promote breastfeeding within the Black community, this week serves as a platform for awareness, advocacy, and education.
Origins of Black Breastfeeding Week
Black Breastfeeding Week was initiated in 2013 by a group of passionate advocates, including Anayah S. T. D. Abdur-Rahman, Kathy S. L. B. K. B. C. S. G., and Dr. A. M. E. H. Their goal was to create a space where Black mothers could find support and resources tailored to their unique experiences in breastfeeding. The founders recognized that Black women face specific challenges, including historical, cultural, and systemic barriers that can impede their breastfeeding journeys.
Purpose and Significance
The week-long observance, celebrated annually from August 25 to August 31, aims to:
– Raise Awareness: Highlight the disparities in breastfeeding rates between Black mothers and other demographics. Statistics reveal that Black infants are less likely to be breastfed compared to their white counterparts.

– Celebrate Black Motherhood: Showcase the beauty and resilience of Black mothers and their contributions to breastfeeding practices.

– Provide Resources: Offer educational materials and support networks to help Black mothers navigate breastfeeding challenges, including access to lactation consultants and community groups.
Impact and Community Engagement
Since its inception, Black Breastfeeding Week has gained traction across the United States and beyond. It has fostered a sense of community among Black mothers and advocates, encouraging dialogue and action toward improving breastfeeding support. Social media campaigns, local events, and partnerships with health organizations have amplified its reach, making it an essential part of the maternal health landscape.
Conclusion
Black Breastfeeding Week stands as a testament to the power of community and advocacy. By addressing the unique needs of Black mothers and promoting breastfeeding, the initiative plays a crucial role in challenging stereotypes, improving health outcomes, and fostering a supportive environment for future generations. As awareness continues to grow, the impact of this week will undoubtedly resonate for years to come.

What is the slogan for breastfeeding in 2024?

World Breastfeeding Week is held in the first week of August every year, supported by WHO, UNICEF and many Ministries of Health and civil society partners. The theme for 2024 is Closing the gap: Breastfeeding support for all.

Who introduced breastfeeding week?

WABA coordinates the global World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) campaign that aims to inform, anchor, engage and galvanise action on breastfeeding and related issues. WBW was started in 1992 to generate public awareness and support for breastfeeding. WBW is officially celebrated on 1-7 August every year.

Why are Black mothers less likely to breastfeed?

During slavery, black women were forced to nurse white children instead of their own, Seals Allers said, and after the Civil War, that power dynamic continued with women of color working as wet nurses. Breastfeeding was not a choice but “something we were forced to do,” said Seals Allers, an African-American woman.

WHO created black breastfeeding week?

founder Kimberly Seals Allers
According to Black Breastfeeding Week founder Kimberly Seals Allers, “The high infant mortality rate among black infants is mostly to their being disproportionately born too small, too sick, or too soon.

WHO theme for Breast Feeding Week 2024?

The theme for this year’s World Breastfeeding Week (1-7th August 2024) is “Closing the gap: Breastfeeding support for all” , celebrating breastfeeding mothers while showcasing the ways families, societies, communities and health workers can support them.

Who created Black breastfeeding week?

founder Kimberly Seals Allers
According to Black Breastfeeding Week founder Kimberly Seals Allers, “The high infant mortality rate among black infants is mostly to their being disproportionately born too small, too sick, or too soon.

Why do we need a Black breastfeeding week?

Black Breastfeeding Week emerges as a beacon of advocacy that not only raises awareness but also pushes for concrete action to dismantle the systemic barriers that have long hindered the health and well-being of Black families. We continue to see change in breastfeeding rates because we keep having these conversations.

At what point is breastfeeding no longer beneficial?

Breastmilk or infant formula should be your baby’s main source of nutrition for around the first year of life. Health professionals recommend exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months, with a gradual introduction of appropriate foods in the second 6 months and ongoing breastfeeding for 2 years or beyond.

What is the theme for Black Breastfeeding Week 2024?

BBW 2024: Reclaiming Our Narrative and Centering our Stories for Breastfeeding Justice. Please share and help spread the word. We look forward to celebrating with you!

Who created black breastfeeding week?

founder Kimberly Seals Allers
According to Black Breastfeeding Week founder Kimberly Seals Allers, “The high infant mortality rate among black infants is mostly to their being disproportionately born too small, too sick, or too soon.