Black Breastfeeding Week — Why This Week Matters More Than Most People Know

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Black Breastfeeding Week was not created to exclude anyone. It was created because too many Black mothers have been excluded from quality lactation care.

Every year during the last week of August, communities across the country come together to celebrate, support, and center the breastfeeding experiences of Black families. And every year, I am reminded of why this week is not symbolic — it is necessary.

THE NUMBERS BEHIND THE NEED

Black mothers initiate breastfeeding at lower rates than any other racial group in the United States. They are less likely to receive in-hospital lactation support. They are more likely to be offered formula before breastfeeding has been established. And they are significantly underrepresented among IBCLC professionals — meaning that when Black mamas do seek lactation help, they often cannot find someone who looks like them or understands their experience.

These are not random statistics. They are the result of systemic failures in healthcare, in breastfeeding education, and in the way communities of color have been historically excluded from wellness spaces.

WHY REPRESENTATION IN LACTATION CARE MATTERS

Research shows that patients receive better care from providers who share their cultural background. It is not just about comfort — it is about communication, trust, and the ability to give and receive information in a way that actually lands.

When a Black mama sits across from a Black IBCLC, something shifts. The assumptions that can creep into clinical spaces — about desire, effort, or capability — are replaced by recognition. By shared context. By real support.

That is what The Breast Choice was built to offer.

CELEBRATE WITH US

This Black Breastfeeding Week, we are gathering to celebrate our mamas, honor the journey, and build community around the kind of care every family deserves.

Join us. Details and RSVP at the link in bio. This week is for you.

With Gratitude,

Tiffani Dickerson RN IBCLC