Well done for raising these questions Anne. I have never used this picture
in talks or in my work because I am not happy with exploiting one person's
suffering in this way, even for 'good' propaganda, and even if the mother
concerned has given permission to use the picture. The baby boy in the
picture cannot consent, and as the years go on he can be identified and can
identify himself.
I have always felt there were unanswered questions about the history and
circumstances behind the picture, too, which you have so clearly
articulated in your post...and which if bf activists are to use the picture
(if they don't share my feelings above), they should be able to answer
fully.
Heather Welford Neil
NCT bfc Newcastle upon Tyne UK