WEST KELOWNA–Mothers and babies filled council chambers in West Kelowna Tuesday night, with a message for policy makers about breastfeeding.
“Moms should just feel comfortable doing it; not have to feel ridiculed or feel they can’t do it, or that they have to cover up,” says proud mother Sylvia Amsler.
A recent request from a group of UBC-O nursing students prompted the “feed-in”. The delegation requested West Kelowna adopt a “Baby Friendly Initiative” that would include putting stickers up in public buildings, indicating breast feeding is welcomed.
Instead of adopting the policy, the delegation claims council members argued the merits of breastfeeding, and perpetuated the myth that support for it equals criticism of bottle feeding. A decision on the matter was put off.
“It’s surprising,” says Lisa Ford with Kelowna Breastfeeding Cafe. “It was a simple request for an education campaign, since it’s already supported by the BC Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms. The response showed how much education is needed in this area.”
But West Kelowna council members say it is its policy to ensure a waiting period on requests, to make sure all of the information needed can be gathered.
A motion to have district staff put together a report on the matter will be brought before West Kelowna council at the next meeting.
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