Black Breastfeeding Week tackles disparities around breastfeeding, pushes benefits

DELMARVA – This week marks the 10th annual Black Breastfeeding Week and local advocates are looking to educate moms on the benefits of breastfeeding.

The goal of the week is to breakdown barriers around breastfeeding in black and brown communities.

According to the Breastfeeding Coalition of Delaware, black infants in Delaware are three times more likely to die before their first birthday.

Health experts say there are many benefits to breastfeeding for both mom and baby, including giving babies a better chance of survival through infancy to lowering mom’s risk of high blood pressure. “Our black mothers don’t have groceries stories where they live, some of our mothers don’t have the education, and some don’t even know that we have lactation consultants,” Breastfeeding Coalition of Delaware’s Shamiya Gould said.

“It’s healthy for your baby. Look it up, ask questions, and lean on this village because ultimately we are a village and we want you to be successful on your journey.”

Nationally, Black women have the lowest rate of breastfeeding than any other racial or ethnic group.

Advocates say there are many resources available if you are considering breastfeeding.

To find out more about Black Breastfeeding Week, click here