Black Breastfeeding Week Part 2: Behind the Scenes

Addison Grimm

Vital Village Networks Community Mobilization AmeriCorps VISTA

Part one of this two part series was centered around my first Black Breastfeeding Week experience as an Americorps VISTA. Now, it is time to uplift the hard work and endless dedication of those who plan and execute BBW. Below we will dive into the stories and messages belonging to members of the Black Breastfeeding Week Committee. 

As highlighted in Part 1, it is easy to see how much of a positive impact BBW has on the community. The women who devote their time and energy into making such inclusive events possible hold Black Breastfeeding close to their hearts. When asked what the planning experience was like, words such as phenomenal, exciting, and celebration came into the conversation. Dominique Bellegard CLC, CLE, stated that what makes hosting and planning an event so special is that “as a Village we can create things together. Having the resources and the tools [to do so] has been very helpful and encouraging.” In a similar vein, Euness Cirino CLC, Peer Counselor emphasized that from the first BBW planning meeting, to participating in events, not only is the process a team effort it is also fun and exciting! 

As someone who has attended planning meetings myself, I can attest to the feeling of excitement echoing through the Zoom call. This was particularly true this year when ROSE Peer Scholar, Stefanie Belnavis attended her first meeting. While she has not yet participated in an event from the BBW Committee perspective, she expressed her deepest support by stating that “Black Breastfeeding Week for me feels like a very poignant reminder and celebration of the Black woman's body, and all it can do to prepare to support a new life. It has a larger representative component that uplifts the historical contents of BBW to the present day.” Such eloquent words ring true throughout the week, whether it is realized by the masses or not. 

Truths such as these hold immense power when considering the importance involvement has on the future progression of Black Breastfeeding Week. “[T]he next generation is able to mimic what we’ve continued to do, by serving our community, celebrating them, and putting our words into practice and action” (Dominique Bellegarde). This does not solely pertain to the youth, however, it is also important to recognize the impact lactation support has on breastfeeding mothers. According to Euness Cirino, “It's really about letting our black and brown women know that there are women who look like them that can help and support.” The feeling of seeing parallels between your story, happiness, and even your struggles is indescribable. Those are the moments the Black Breastfeeding Week Committee brings. 
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I want to bring you back to Part 1. Ponder again the question of “Why do we need a Black Breastfeeding Week?” Really take the time to sit and mull over such an important week. When you come to your answer, rest easy knowing that the women behind the scenes are working their magic to bring more peace and unity to you. To get involved and witness such a gratifying display of unity, go to events! “Start with your stories and truth telling” (Stefanie Belnavis). Get involved, ask questions, or just sit and listen. “Just be present to see the joy in other people's faces when they come together” (Stefanie Belnavis).