In a recent incident aboard a United Airlines flight, a mother faced unwarranted criticism while breastfeeding her infant. Despite it being 2016 and breastfeeding in public being legally protected, some women still encounter harassment and shaming for nursing their children openly. This situation unfolded when a new mother, Sarah Mitchell, was traveling from Denver to San Francisco with her four-month-old daughter. The baby was nursing peacefully, allowing for a calm atmosphere on the flight, until another passenger expressed discomfort.
Mitchell recounted that after she finished nursing, her baby fell asleep on her chest. As is common for parents in such situations, she was reluctant to move and risk waking her child. Notably, her attire provided ample coverage, with no skin visible below her collarbone. However, a nearby female passenger approached a male flight attendant, insisting, “You need to tell her to cover up.”
A female crew member subsequently approached Mitchell, asking her to use a cover. Mitchell, understanding her rights, declined, explaining that her baby’s peacefulness was a direct result of her comfortable nursing. Breastfeeding is not only legal but also a natural act that should not disrupt the ambiance of a flight.
The situation escalated when the original complainant began shouting, “I made it clear that someone needs to tell the girl to cover up! It’s disgusting that you would let something like this go on.” The irony was not lost on other passengers, who found the outburst far more disruptive than the sight of a mother nursing her child.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges mothers face, whether breastfeeding or using formula. Often, no matter the choice, there’s potential for criticism from others. In fact, mothers can feel pressured into secluded spaces to avoid unwarranted scrutiny. Mitchell, feeling embarrassed by the commotion, eventually draped a blanket over herself but was understandably upset by the entire experience. Legally, breastfeeding mothers should have the freedom to nurse without a cover, and it is the responsibility of airline staff to uphold this understanding.
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In summary, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the societal stigma still surrounding breastfeeding. Mothers deserve the right to nourish their babies without fear of judgment or harassment, and awareness must be raised to foster a more accepting environment for all.