When you think of the Boy Scouts, images of camping trips and merit badges likely come to mind—not breastfeeding disputes. However, a recent incident in Tennessee has stirred significant outrage among parents, particularly mothers. A local woman, Emily Carter, shared her story on a Facebook group dedicated to breastfeeding support, detailing her experience at her son’s Boy Scout meeting.
As Emily attended the meeting with her son, who is on the autism spectrum, and her two other children, her one-year-old became hungry. She began breastfeeding in the back of the room, utilizing the “two-shirt method” for modesty. Everything seemed to be going well until a female scout leader confronted her afterward. “I was told multiple times how inappropriate I was,” Emily recounted. “I was warned that other parents would be upset and that I should leave or cover completely with a blanket in the future. I was so taken aback and embarrassed that I ended up leaving in tears.”
Emily, a survivor of childhood trauma who has faced challenges with breastfeeding, felt deeply shamed by the encounter. After reaching out to the local council, she learned that she was legally permitted to breastfeed in public. However, the response she received was not what she expected. Instead of an apology or support, Emily received a letter from Mark Johnson, the Director of Field Services for the Middle Tennessee Council, which read: “While you absolutely have the legal right to breastfeed in public, there are those in your Troop who feel uncomfortable. When you choose to nurse your baby uncovered and/or in the same room as the Scouts, it causes disruption. Some young boys do not understand about breastfeeding and have families who may not be ready to have this discussion.”
This remark raises eyebrows—are we really discussing a natural act of feeding or something far more provocative? The letter went on to suggest that she consider using a cover or relocating to another room while nursing. “Perhaps this concession to those with different views can get this unit back on track,” it stated, implying that respecting boundaries is a valuable lesson for boys to learn.
Since Emily shared her experience, the letter has sparked widespread attention, garnering nearly 3,000 shares and numerous comments on the Boy Scouts of America’s Facebook page. Many are calling for better education regarding breastfeeding for all involved. The organization has responded by stating they are “continuing to evaluate” the situation, yet they lack a formal policy on the matter.
Mark Johnson has since expressed regret that the letter led to controversy, acknowledging that it isolated Emily. “She can breastfeed pretty much anywhere she wants to—that’s fully within her rights,” he stated, adding that he hopes to facilitate a conversation with Emily and the troop leaders to resolve the issue. It’s crucial for organizations like the Boy Scouts to foster an environment that supports breastfeeding mothers, which is certainly a valuable lesson for young boys to observe.
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In summary, the Boy Scouts’ recent handling of a breastfeeding incident has ignited a conversation about motherhood, rights, and support in public spaces. As the organization navigates this complex issue, it’s hoped that they will take actionable steps to promote understanding and acceptance, ensuring that mothers can feel comfortable nurturing their children wherever they are.
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