Diane, I fully understand. I won't presume to tell you what to do, but I'll
tell you what I did in a similar situation.

A few years ago I was invited to speak at a regional perinatal meeting. When
I sent in my acceptance letter, it contained my usual statement "I understand
that no funds will be solicited or accepted from formula companies." The
organizer wrote back and un-invited me with no explanation. I fired back a
letter insisting on an explanation of why I was un-invited, which I received.
My feelings of smugness were tempered by the frustration that the audience
didn't get to hear me.  Fast-forward to now.... the perinatal network finally
grasped the "conflict of interest" idea and no longer accepts funding from
you-know-who. Only took 3 years. Still haven't been invited back to speak,
but other LCs have, and have said similar things as I would have said. The
message will get carried forth somehow...

As much as I love being on stage, I refuse to accept funding from ABM
companies if I know about it in advance. If I find out about a "free" lunch
too late, I refuse to eat it (bringing a brown bag or lunchbox is a very
political statement). If I find out about the hidden funding too late to
refuse to speak, I make a special point to talk about the politics and
conflict-of-interest issues involved. Opens a few eyes, fer sure.

Linda Smith, Dayton OH private practice, where we are forming a county-wide
BF Coalition AT LAST. Dis is da place where where colostrum is "treated" with
antibiotics and jaundice "causes" cerebral palsy. Rolling up our sleeves.....