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Subject:
From:
Margery Wilson <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
Lactation Information and Discussion <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Mon, 4 Mar 1996 22:32:29 -0500
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For what it's worth: a few months ago the "Chronicle of Higher Education"
did a cover story on family benefits provided by universitys and colleges.
Coverage was given to the MIT Breastfeeding Support Program (that I started
:->)  The reporter was avid about quoting professors--and showing how they
fit breastfeeding (or pumping) into their teaching schedules. (She was
bummed out that none of the professors would allow her to photograph them
pumping at their desks) One professor said to me: "Well, I always hoped for
a mention in the prestigious Chronicle. I never thought it would be my
mammaries that would get me there!"

I know that I received several queries after the article was published from
colleges who wanted to start their own programs. Maybe the teachers' union
needs education about family benefits elsewhere. If colleges have this sort
of support there must be elementary schools that do? Anyway, I know there is
at least one published feature story touting the benefits of pumping on
school property. I'm sure some of you have similar ones? At the very least I
would share copies of the ubiquitous articles on how workplace lactation
support is good for business (less employee absences, less medical monies
spent, better moral).

If I ruled the world (stop laughing you guys!) teachers would have their
infants with them to nurse during class. That is an education I'd like all
kids to have. BTW: one of my clients (from Iraq) has a sister who is a
professor in (Pakistan? I think). He said the university provides a child
care worker who cares for the infant on site and brings it to class for
nursings if needed. He equated the practice to providing a secretary, said
he couldn't see the difference. I don't know if this is representative, but
would that we had such a mentality.

Let us know how this story unfolds.

Margery Wilson, IBCLC
Cambridge, Massachusetts,USA
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
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