Today marks the start of Black Breastfeeding Week 2018. According to the CDC, roughly 65% of Black women choose to breastfeed their babies, as opposed to 80% of White and Hispanic mothers. And only 27% continue to breastfeed after the baby reaches 6 months old, as opposed to 44% of women overall.

Breastfeeding rates are low in America among the African American community for many reasons. While ancestral stigma and lack of medical education play a huge part, another big reason happens to be a lack of representation in the media’s portrayal of breastfeeding moms.

By empowering Black mothers through beautiful breastfeeding imagery, Junebug Photography Studio is hoping to help change that. Each mother in this photo series has given their personal response to the question: “What does breastfeeding mean to you?”

For more images in this series, check out this slideshow on the Junebug Photography Studio Facebook page.

Enjoy!

More info: Facebook

“I breast feed because I believe it is what nature intended”

“[Breastfeeding] is the right choice for me and my family. Being able to fully nourish my baby, see him grow and create a strong bond gives me indescribable joy.”

“Breastfeeding means feeding my baby the best healthy nutrients and nourishment possible to help her grow”

“Breastfeeding allows me to create an unbreakable bond with my baby starting from birth.”

“I breastfeed because I love being the source of my daughter’s nutrition”

“I love that my milk protects her against illnesses and provides antibodies against viruses. When my daughter is done feeding, she pulls away from me and gives me the biggest smile! I know she is full and satisfied. Breastfeeding is our mommy and me time.”

“Breastfeeding is a unique time I spend with my son creating an unbreakable bond”

“We both love and cherish this time.”

Together We Can

Together we can change the statistics for black mothers. Together we can educate and empower mothers across all races!

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