Breastfeeding in public – Misunderstood?

Whilst the majority of people understood where I was coming from re my Breastfeeding in Public – aren’t we forgetting something? post, a couple of people – quite understandably – didn’t quite.

So I’d like to take this opportunity to just clarify, if that’s ok?

In regard to respecting others, I think it is quite doable to respect the rights, views, opinions and beliefs of others without giving in, bowing to them, or just not – in this case – bresatfeeding in their presence.

I believe you can accept the rights, views, opions and beliefs of others without giving up on your own.

It may be as simple as breastfeeding discreetly, or turning away slightly.

For those who have assumed I either don’t breastfeed, or I only do it in the privacy, those who know me have had a good laugh at this and said “You? Feed in private? Pfft!” Yes, I am, what some refer to, as a “tits out public breastfeeder”. Although I do like to think that my tits are somewhat hidden.

(I would also like it if my 9 month old respected by desire to keep my tits hidden and stop lifting my shirt, pulling away and making a loud noise … but that’s for another post).

Anyhoo, in my opinion, respect and acceptance are totally different from giving in, giving up or bowing to the pressures of others. I believe respect is earnt, and the way to earn the respect you deserve is by respecting others. How you do this is entirely up to you.

It works, of course, both ways. If you don’t like a mum breastfeeding beside you, then she’s not going to respect you if you’re rude to her.

My main point of the post, however, was completely missed by some.

That some people find it perfectly acceptable to speak to breastfeeding mums in the manner they do.

Or to speak to bottle feeding mothers in that manner. Or school kids having a bit of harmless fun. Or a waitress. Or anyone for that matter.

Speaking rudely to people is just obnoxious behaviour. And that was my point.

By the by … given the discussion on breastfeeding in public, and thanks to everone who commented or emailed me, I appreciate it … realmums.com.au is conducting a small survey on the issue.

We want to hear from current and past bresatfeeders and bottle feeders and feeders of babies in public. Click Here to take survey … it’ll take you less than a minute, and will be greatly appreciated.