Marsha, et al,
     As regards the Hispanic mothers you see, and their reluctance to give colostrum, this is a common belief in S-E Asia and in a host of other countries.  Cultural practices are not, however, set in stone and this is just where we are seeing them at this time.  Indeed (as I'm mentioned before on Lactnet), avoidance of colostrum was common practice in England in the early 1800s and as late as about 1829 (Smith, 1979), but it changed.  I have no idea why.  As you stated, we can give the information, but need to respect the mother's right to make her choice and support her in getting breastfeeding going, when she's ready.

REFERENCE:
Smith FE. The people's health. London: Croom Helm, 1979.

    Cheers,
         Virginia
         in sunny Brisbane

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