Are you interested in issues relating to Asian/Pacific American mothers and breastfeeding?
I've been wanting to do a little bit of organizing of Asian/Pacific American breastfeeding supporters for a while.
Why? Because I think that there is a need for better understanding of Asian/Pacific American mothers' perspectives and support needs when it comes to breastfeeding. We* have a high breastfeeding initiation rate compared to other ethnic groups, but I do hear uninformed comments from breastfeeding support people about Asian mothers and breastfeeding. African American moms and support people are starting to organize and advocate, I think there's a need for Asian/Pacific Americans to do the same.
I was thinking of a very simple project to start: A website which has 1) links to breastfeeding materials in Asian/Pacific lanuages, 2) compiles the available research on Asian/Pacific American mothers and breastfeeding, and 3) provides contact information to some people who can speak knowledgeably about Asian/Pacific American moms and breastfeeding. It would demonstrate how diverse our communities are, and provide a little historical context. I'd also like it to form a connection between Asian/Pacific Americans involved in breastfeeding support.
So, if you're an Asian/Pacific American mother, breastfeeding support person (i.e. lactation consultant, La Leche League leader, WIC peer counselor, health care provider), or just interested, please email me! I'm looking forward to getting started on this project.
*I'm Japanese American, though you can't tell from my name!
