Spectrum 1 News reporter Genevieve Glass interviewed moms and experts at CinnaMoms’ Black Breastfeeding Week event in August.
In the story, Glass highlighted some of the barriers to breastfeeding for Black families, including historical oppression and physical challenges.
CinnaMom Markiesha Mullen shared her personal struggles with breastfeeding.
“My first child, Shania, breastfeeding her was super painful,” Mullen said in the story. “I didn’t understand the importance or no one really was on me to teach me the importance [of breastfeeding].”
With the support of CinnaMoms, a program of PHFE WIC and Heluna Health, Mullen said she was able to breastfeed her second child, 8-month-old Ocean.
“So many things that I learned this time helped me tremendously,” Mullen said.
CinnaMoms aims to improve health outcomes for Black and brown families by providing empowerment and a safe and encouraging environment. The program provides lactation consultants, support groups and connections to community resources to families participating in PHFE WIC.
“It makes me feel really empowered, knowing that I’m able to keep going and fight through the pain,” Mullen said, holding baby Ocean in her lap. “I wanted a strong man, so you know, we had to make sure he keeps his nutrients in there.”
The August event brought together CinnaMoms families, community leaders and representatives from support organizations to discuss challenges, offer advice and celebrate wins.
Click here to see the full story from Spectrum 1 News.
