Barbara wrote a powerful post in "ILCA, NABA, LLL and YOU":
<A really fabulous response to the
present situation would be to join and get involved in the organizations
that represent our profession and which advocate for bfg out in the
world.>

Shortly after reading that, I logged on to Medscape for Nurses, and took
in a tremendous article from the American Journal of Critical Care: "Bold
Voices: Fearless and Essential" by Connie Barden. I encourage those of
you who have access to Medscape to read it and absorb its powerful
message for what can be applied to the current state of "politics"
effecting the "marketing of breastfeeding".
For others interested in reading the entire article, for reprints,
contact the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses, 101 Columbia,
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656. Phone, (800) 899-2226; ask for product #006103.
She begins with a quote from Eleanor Roosevelt: "There is no more
liberating, no more exhilarating experience than to determine one's
position, state it bravely and then act boldly. Action creates its own
courage; and courage is as contagious as fear."
Ms. Barden goes on to say: "The boldness of our voices has begun to
create the change so desperately needed throughout healthcare–in our work
environments and in the lives of our patients and their families. . . .
Her next section : "Strength in Numbers . . . .As individuals, we are
powerful. In association, we are even more powerful.  . . . . . . . ."
"Face the Challenges . . . .This future will not simply happen. However,
it is possible if those of us invested in the health of healthcare make
it happen through thoughtful and deliberate actions.  . ."
"Follow Our Purpose . . . .Not only do we learn little from inaction, but
also much harm can result from it. The ethical route is to choose
consciously and carry out deliberate actions that represent who we are
and the commitment to our purpose. If we do not act by speaking up, how
can we expect others–legislators, employers, the public–to value who we
are and what we do? . . .We have no choice but to identify and be led by
our purpose. It will be the siren calling us always to the higher
standard of being and acting–guiding us in how to work, how to serve, how
to contribute."
"Use a Bold Voice . . .We must also allow ourselves to be guided by a
commitment to develop and use our voices boldly and courageously. . .
.What is a "bold" voice? A bold voice isn't a blaming voice or a whining
voice. It doesn't argue about who is right or wrong or about whose fault
it is that we are faced with challenges. A bold voice moves past
complaints to look for solutions. And solutions will be found if we work
with others and take the time, give the thought, and have the patience to
create the changes needed. . . . ."
It was so very striking to read two messages that echoed each other in
spirit, even though the authors were addressing what seemed to be two
diametrically opposing situations: critical care nursing, and moving our
U.S. culture toward the normal in mothering and infant nurturing through
a changed societal view of breastfeeding.
"Fighting the system" sometimes gets very discouraging. I thought this
message might offer an "infusion of courage" for those whose spirit needs
"buoying up".
Jean
*********
K. Jean Cotterman RNC, IBCLC
Dayton, Ohio USA

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