Marsha writes that since pumps are not covered under the Code, their
marketing is not subject to the restrictions contained therein.  However,
since Medela is a provider of feeding bottles and teats, and since they
market their pumps at least in part by idealizing the use of these very
feeding bottles, to wit, the testimonial of the current Freestyle mom of the
month in which she sings the praises of bottles as a way to 'allow' older
siblings to bond with the baby, I think a case can be made that even pumps
can be marketed in ways that are in violation of the Code.  
Is it the case that one may use tactics clearly in violation of the Code,
without consequences, as long as it is to market products that themselves
are not covered?  I don't know, I am asking.

The other point I want to make, again, is that there is no requirement that
we as consumers condone practices by any companies we find unethical or
objectionable, nor purchase their products, just because that marketing is
not in violation of some official rule.  But there are no sanctions we can
impose as a group, to bring pressure on a company to change, without an
agreed-upon norm. Even with such a norm, it's always an uphill battle and
one can never rest.

I hope JHL can manage without income from Medela's adverts, because I don't
see how they can continue to take them in within their own policy of not
accepting ads from non-Code compliant companies.  I'd like it if they
actually published a blacklist on the ILCA website 'These companies will not
be permitted to advertise in JHL nor to exhibit at events put on by ILCA or
its affiliates, because they violate points X, Y or Z of the Code. Only if
they change their policies to comply with the full intent and letter of the
Code, will we reconsider the matter.'

There are no providers of pumps, none, whose profits would increase in the
short term if the US were to enact legislation to provide real maternity
leave.  So I don't think we should look to manufacturers of pumps to lead
the way on this, unless we are so naïve that we probably shouldn't be left
alone to take a bus to the supermarket, even.  The harder question is,
should we accept a situation in which only mothers who can afford to get
hold of a pump and all the accessories, can let their babies get their milk?
 I think not, but I'm not the dictator of the world, more's the pity. (!)

For the record I have let Medela know of my opinion in writing, via their
website.  Will post to the list when and if I get a response.  Not holding
my breath.

Rachel Myr
Kristiansand, Norway

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