Recently, the Atlantic Monthly published an article denouncing the 
(well-documented) benefits of breastfeeding 
(http://www.theatlantic.com/doc/200904/case-against-breastfeeding). A 
subsequent perplexingly antagonistic article in Mother Jones 
(http://www.motherjones.com/blue-marble/2009/03/we-over-privileged-bitche
s-who-dare-not-breastfeed-0), as well as negative spin on the Today 
Show 
(http://video.aol.com/video-detail/nbc-today-show-nbc-today-show-is-breas
t-feeding-really-best/165967825) and other venues, has indicated a need 
for a reply. The United States Breastfeeding Committee has sent a 
letter to the editor of The Atlantic, co-signed by many of its members 
and other national organizations. But what is also needed is help to 
bring an end to this unnecessary and irresponsible "debate" about the 
proven health risks of not breastfeeding, and to reframe the discussion 
to focus on what's really at stake: support for mothers and families. 
The tired old mommy wars fueled by the media needs to be retired and 
our message needs to be re-framed. Letters to the editor can reach a 
large audience, allowing readers to comment on the way issues are 
addressed in the mass media.

USBC has posted on its website a sample letter with talking points that 
you might add as you customize your letter to the Atlantic Monthly. 
Once you have finished you simply click the letter on its way. This is 
a fast and easy way to voice your objection to irresponsible 
journalism. USBC will be able to track the number of letters sent 
through this tool. Please consider going to the US Breastfeeding 
Committee website at www.usbreastfeeding.org and voice your opinion.

Marsha Walker, RN, IBCLC
Weston, MA

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