The Not-So-Friendly Skies

I told someone yesterday I'd have probably been arrested, because I would have been so angry -- they'd been delayed 3 hours according to the report I saw - so anything that would keep the baby quiet and occupied should have been met with thankfulness, not this mess! I've have suggested the attendant put the blanket over her OWN head if it offended her so badly.

I've posted this on a number of my boards. I'm completely and utterly DISGUSTED by this. I agree with Zanna - perhaps the flight attendant should have put the blanket over HER head. Oh, and just a thought...what kind of company allows their employees to treat the customer, their bread and butter, in this way? Sad and pitiful. Shame on you!! You know who you are!

That flight attendant's days are most likely going to be numbered at whatever airline that was.

ACTUALLY - I just read the article. The "baby" was nearly 2 years old!! Come on now - this is no infant. Someone get that kid a cracker and a bottle/ sippy cup!

There is no official age to stop breastfeeding. The age of the child has nothing to do with it.

o.k. i quite agree with DLB, the baby was a little too old to be breastfed. the mother should have been weaning her by now. BUT!!! i dont think that is the issue at hand! what surprises me the most is that the air hostess was "female". i'd have expected that kind of reaction from a man not a woman - potential future wife and mother???

"get that kid a cracker and a bottle/sippy cup!"????? Ummmm no.
As someone else said, there is no age that a child must be weaned by and if this was the way the child was comforted, then so be it. I breastfed my son until he was 3. It had more to do with the quiet calming time and the bonding time than the actual nutrients. He weaned when he was ready. Same as this child will.

I was so angry when I read about this incident that I went to Delta's website and wrote a complaint. I urge everyone else who is outraged by this incident to complain as well. Delta really needs to feel some heat from the public on this!

I agree that the age of the child does not matter. It's up to the child and the mother when breastfeeding stops. But has anyone every considered why the flight attendent made the comment? She could have recently gone through a miscarriage of recently found out that she could not bare children. It could also be that she had a baby at home, but do to her job, can not be home with that child. I still agree that the incident should not have happened, but I wanted to try to see it from the flight attendent's point of view.

I agree with Sandy and Excuse me. Babies don't have to be weaned on someone else's time table. My daughter weaned herself at age 4. I'd do it all over again, too. That poor mother was probably humiliated. Why is it that when people(men) see a woman with her breasts about to fall out of her shirt, and no baby is attached, it's sexy. Let them be used for their intended purspose and the ignorant, or should I say "uninformed", are offended. Writing to Delta is a great idea!!

I agree with DLB, although mothers do have a right to breastfeed and there isn't a set age for ceasing breastfeeding, come on now...a 2 year old? Other passengers on the plane also have the right not to have to watch a 'toddler' nurse. While the mother and child's rights should be respected, so should the other passengers/attendants. If there is no age a child must/should be weaned by, does that mean you would think it was alright for a 6 year old to be nursing in public, or an 8 year old. I think not.

Cursing and chewing with your mouth open are more offensive to me than breastfeeding my child. Some people just do not understand the physically implications of a changing woman and young child's bodies.

Maybe it's because I'm not a mother, but it drives me nuts when women breastfeed in public. I've seen women breastfeed in the middle of loud, crowded restaurants, I don't understand how that's comfortable for them or the baby. Don't they want to enjoy a little quiet time with their babies? Now, in this case I think the airline was wrong - but I don't get why wouldn't the mother cover her baby and breast?

get over it.

Ugh! This makes me FURIOUS! I breastfed both of my kids until close to 2 years of age, and it is my right to do so. The World Health Organization actually recommends breastfeeding until 2 years of age for maximum health benefits. It amazes me how ignorant our society can be.

IMHO some of the revealing clothing I see worn everywhere (including on planes) shows WAY more skin than a mother discreetly breastfeeding her child, but I don't see the cleavage-baring, thong-above-waistband, cropped-toppers being forced off airplanes.

Oh, and LaraChick, the reason she didn't put a blanket on the baby's head is because babies hate having blankets on their heads. It's hot under there, there's no fresh air to breathe, and they can't see anything. No child or adult I know of likes having a blanket over their head, and babies are no different...my babies just pulled it off if I tried.

i dont believe it! now breast feeding your baby is becoming a nuisance to people. common sane people! let a baby have her mother's milk with out creating a mess !

You know whats great about this news story? The fact that it is a news story. The fact that the public has become so aware of the importance of breastfeeding and a woman's right to feed her child in public, that there is enough interest in this for it to be broadcasted nationally. Ive seen this story plastered all over the place today.

I bet 20 years ago this kind of thing happened all the time and no one cared or did anything about it. A mother then may have been embarassed or upset just like this mom was, and maybe she would have even filed a complaint; but I doubt anything would have happened to the flight attendant.

Now? I bet that woman will be fired, or at the very least sent to heavy doses of sensitivity training. At least we're making progress!

And even if she had had a miscarriage or something...would she have freaked if she saw a 2 year old with a bottle? Probably not. Its just ignorance.

That's absolutely ridiculous! God forbid a woman try to feed her baby. If the flight attendant was so offended, um, I have an idea for her.... LOOK AWAY!!! Nobody's sitting there holding your head, forcing you to watch a woman breastfeed her child! And for crying out loud, she was in the back of the plane. People seriously need to chill out, we all know what boobs look like, it's nothin' new!

I don't see what is wrong with asking her to cover up if she was offended.

I understand that other uniformed people find breastfeeding offensive and would rather not watch as the mother and child do it. I just recently had a baby girl and chose to breast feed because of the benefits it has for her. I wouldn't do it any differently. I find it offensive that we are asked to conceal this wonderful experience because the uneducated think they have a right to tell me when/where/what I should be feeding my child. I am doing what is best for my baby, and no one has a right to tell me otherwise. Perhaps if they were nurtured in such a way as a baby/child, they would be a little more compasionate and understanding. Let someone tell me I can't do it....

I understand that people have strong feelings about their "right" to breastfeed their baby in public... However, with the understanding that many people do find it offensive or uncomfortable to watch, what is so wrong about asking a mother to pump and then use a bottle to provide the breast milk, at least for the short time that she is travelling? I know I'll get reamed for this comment, but small children on planes disturb the peace of the other passengers enough as it is. If you are breastfeeding your baby at the age of two for the connection provided by this intimate and private act, please do it in an intimate and private way.

I am a young mother of a toddler as well and, although I did not breast feed for personal reasons, a woman breastfeeding in public doesn't bother me. It was over-the-top to kick that woman off of the plane for breastfeeding her child regardless of age (okay, so a six year old breastfeeding would be too old, and although 2 years seemed a bit too old to me, it isn't THAT old)- but some people don't want to see it - the flight attendant may have been a b**** but the woman could have maybe just used a blanket to cover her.

It was Delta, a member of Freedom Airlines, who are all, by the way, refusing to speak with the family. This is DISGUSTING BEHAVIOR. A mother should be able to breastfeed when her baby's hungry. I mean, I'd rather have a mother breastfeeding her baby in the seat next to me than have a baby crying ANYWHERE on the flight I'm on!

I do think the child is a little too old, but if the mom covered and no one else on the plane was bothered, then I think they should have left her alone. I was in Applebees the other day and a mother was nursing a newborn right at the booth. My 9 year old son looked a little confused, but once I explained, he was fine, I think. This women in Applebees was not covered at all. Her shirt was up and the baby was definately eating well. I breastfed my babies, but not in the middle of Applebees! The women on the plane was most likely just trying to make a bad situation as comfortable as possible.

ok, let me clarify my last sentence. I meant that the mom was trying to sooth her child from the stresses of traveling as best she could and did her best to try not to offend anyone. It kind of sounded like I was talking about the flight attendant, so I just wanted to clarify. the flight attendant should appologize for causing a scene, but if she was truly offended, maybe she should have asked to work another flight.

I'm not a mother; I don't ever plan to be; I have no interest in watching women breastfeed, BUT that is just the point. I don't HAVE to watch them! I have enough control over my eyes and neck to LOOK AWAY. Because breastfeeding women are doing something healthy, natural and positive for themselves and their babies, I think the rest of society needs to get over their squeamishness and/or learn to look away.

What do you do when someone else is doing something in public that you'd rather not see (e.g., pick his nose, pick his teeth)? You look away. (And I don't mean to align breastfeeding with nose- or teeth-picking, just easy examples.)

People who are bringing up the child's age are just deflecting the argument. The age of the child is NOT the issue. Treating mothers with respect and decency is.

This is not the first time I have been disgusted with small minded people. A few years ago, when at the mall, my daughter needed a feeding. Not wanting to feed in the middle of the mall, I took her into the public bathroom. As I was siiting on the counter feeding my four month old, a woman came in, mentioned how adorable it was, then proceeding into a bathroom stall, and to my disbelief, she light up a cigarette. I was so disgusted. I mean, I am a smoker myself, but I do not smoke around my children or in my house. This was also a smoke free mall. I mean, when are we as people going to expand our minds?

this is ridiculous! i mean its natural and neccessary to feed your baby whether its on a plane or not! This makes me furious!!

Excuse Me - you have an excellent argument. For a less repulsive comparison (as opposed to yours of nose-picking) perhaps two people kissing in public? This too is an intimate experience, and some cultures frown upon this. While, yes, eyes can be averted, is it not the responsibility of the flight attendant to serve/ help/ observe passengers? I think Sue had a good point - "If you are breastfeeding your baby at the age of two for the connection provided by this intimate and private act, please do it in an intimate and private way."

However, i will admit a point was taken by Excuse Me - bringing up the age is deflecting the argument.

I have a difficult time understanding people who are offended by breastfeeding mothers. As many others have stated, breastfeeding is a natural and healthy human action. However, actions associated with the human body are often considered offensive. Could part of the offense simply be the reminder that we HAVE bodies, that those bodies have needs, desires, urges, that are frequently entirely too messy, unsanitary, animalistic, etc? There is such an emphasis in our culture on controlling and minimizing our bodies and instead lifting up our intellects, as a way to distinguish and separate ourselves from the animals... Ultimately, my point is that this is representative of a much larger cultural issue than just breastfeeding, but our culture's relationship to our own animalism.

On a separate note, before babies are able to "pop" their own ears, it seems to me it is CHILD ABUSE to not nurse/ breastfeed them during flights to alleviate ear pressure.

I am absolutely horrified that this has gone on...Why is okay for you to tell ME that the nursing of my 18 month old is offensive, but if I tell you that NOT breastfeeding is stupid, I am a NAZI!?!?!? Every parent has the right to make choices regarding child rearing. Delta is taking away my choice. My son will not leave a blanket on his head and I can bet that any women here would be complaining if I let him scream for the duration of a flight. Breasts are for BREASTfeeding, not gawking!

I nursed all my children for at least a year because I was told by doctors and in all that I read that it was the best thing to do for my babies. I never enjoyed breast feeding in public- (I was always nervous about flashing someone inadvertanly! Babies really do hate blankets over their heads) but I wanted to give my babies the best possible nutrition. And I didn't want to stay home in away from life for a couple of years! Breastfed babies nurse more frequently than bottle fed babies. So if a nursing mom attempts to have a social life and get out of the house, she not only has to take her baby but she also has to be prepared to nurse that baby in public. Our society is way behind in breast feeding support compared to Europe and other countries. If we know it is healthy, than we need to support women in public nursing their babies!

I work at a restaurant and it recently came up that a woman was breastfeeding her baby. This guy I was working with was like"Oh my God, can you beleive she's doing that?" So I said where would you like her to do it? He said she should go to the bathroom!! I couldn't beleive he actually said that! Do you eat your dinner on the toilet?!I really just want to hear one GOOD reason that a baby nursing is ever offensive! If I wear very revealing shirts that's ok, but nurturing the human race is wrong! WHAT IS WRONG WITH PEOPLE?

With the restrictions imposed by the airlines, the only way to bring needed baby food is to carry it internally. They are restricting milk, formula and bottled breast milk. (They fear it will explode) They are over reacting to fears encouraged by our government.

Our society is to concerned with sex. What was that fight attendant thinking about?

I think that in the USA with our present economy, the best way for the airline to change their rude treatment is to stop using them. The dollar rules this world and any business that treats their customers that way will not get my money.

Excuse me?? Why is it not offensive for some of you to see a breastfeeding 12-month-old, but see a child who's not yet two and that somehow turns into an issue on the mother's choice to stop weaning? Ridiculous. And I quite agree with another poster here: Women can walk around with all but the nipples showing and men fall all over themselves to get a glimpse, but attach a baby and others want them covered up?? These people should be ashamed of themselves. And more on weaning... I've seen children as young as six months being weaned for medical purposes, and children as old as four. It's a mother's right and the child's age is not an issue when we're talking about a a person's freedom. Imagine a man sitting across the aisle flipping through Madonna's sex book for all eyes to see. Would the attendant have asked him to place a blanket over the freakin' thing???

I was on an AA Eagle plane of couple of years where we had to sit on the tarmac next to the runway in Tulsa for a couple of hours to wait for a storm to pass. The lady in the seat next to me very discreetly breast fed her baby. No big deal.

But what struck me about the original posting above was that the lady refused a blanket to help cover up and had an attitude "...I am exercising my legal right to breast-feed and refused the blanket...". It sounds like to me she was just trying to be a trouble maker.

I am a mother and I did breastfeed!! only NOT IN PUBLIC!! I completely understand the importance of breastfeeding and I support it but I think that breastfeeding on public places is just tacky and completely disgusting, besides breastfeeding a child almost 2...that's even senseless, they can already eat. My advice: If you want to calm your baby or toddler or kid!!! while on an airplane or anywhere else give them a bottle not your boob!!! Nobody wants to walk around and see somebody else's private parts wandering around. In my opinion, breastfeeding in public completely aware of what you are doing it's an act of disrespect towards the people that surround you. YOU ARE NOT ALONE, there are others that deserve respect!

I am so utterly appalled by what this mother had to go through. How dare anyone interfere with what every woman has a right and obligation to do...to love and care for her child in the best way possible. The World Health Organization and many other groups worldwide recommend breastfeeding for 2 years. I breastfeed my daughter for more than two years. My son who is almost 2 is also still breastfeeding (we were never able to get him to drink even my milk from a bottle since he was born). Many children are comforted to see their mothers and will refuse to have a blanket over their heads. Breastfeeding in the discreet manner that this woman did does not expose anything more than any low cut shirt would. (maybe the flight attendant should ask scantily clad women to cover up too!) In Europe breastfeeding is seen in a much more natural way. Not enough women breastfeed long enough, if at all, so there should not be these type of obstacles to dissuade women from doing what is best for their kids.

It's true: the World Health Organization RECOMMENDS breastfeeding until at least the age of two.

I am currently breastfeeding my son (10 weeks old) and I have also nursed him in public, using a blanket to cover up. It's a pain in the A**; he gets too hot, starts fussing and fighting and pulling the blanket off. But for my own privacy, I can't imagine NOT using the blanket. (And I streaked my entire college, multiple times!) The fact is, whether we like it or not, people DO see breasts as sexual objects, and I think the real problem is that this leads them to interpret breastfeeding as some freakish semi-sexual act involving a baby. I don't like it, I wish it wasn't so, but I can't change it, and I'm not comfortable breastfeeding my son in public sans blanket, knowing that people would look at us this way. Precisely because it IS such an important, intimate experience, we are both vulnerable--and why would I expose that to just anyone? The blanket stays, as far as I'm concerned. It's protection.

this is really sad. i can't understand how anyone would think of breastfeeding as anything but natural, but i can also see what ^real life wife is saying.
society is seriously ****ed up and it frustrates me because no one can do anything about it.

Off course is natural, but because is natural it doesn't mean you have to do it on public. There is a code of respect to others, uncover your nipples in public is disgusting. You don't pee in public! yet peeing is a "natural" thing your body does, because it involves getting your private parts in public. The same goes for sex, sex is natural too if that is at what we're getting. You just DON'T do that IN PUBLIC. There should be rooms or special spaces for women that want to breastfeed on malls or public spaces because the idea of going to a public restroom is even more disgusting. Or even better PUMP your milk to a bottle and give it to your baby. What do you think that mothers that work do? they pump they milk out! and problem solved.

How are peeing in public and breastfeeding in public the same thing?????? Good Lord!! Kissing is a natural thing, people do it in public all the time, but you don't see them getting yelled at or told to cover up!! Nor do you see the "sexily dressed" women get told to cover up. Get a grip people!!! I see nothing wrong w/breastfeeding in public. I will be breastfeeding the little girl I'm expecting in 2/07, and if she happens to get hungry in a public place, I'm gonna feed her. Breastfeeding is making a serious comeback, and I do believe it's here to stay. We're not a totally bottle feeding public anymore. If you don't like what you see, don't look!!! Don't insult the mom, leave her alone. She's doing what she thinks is best for her baby. BTW...there are a LOT of places that offer no quiet place for moms to breastfeed. Instead of complaining to the mom, why don't you complain to the establishment you're at instead and ask them why they don't have a space for women to breastfeed?? Something to think about isn't it?

Seems to me that if the woman was being quite discreet. The expectation was that passengers would not be up and walking around during the flight. It doesn't matter how old the child was, as long as she was following the regulations set out by the airlines as far as seat requirement (she had to have been under 2). Counting on having crackers and asippy cup on airlines these days is ridiculous, with all the last minute changes in regulations. She should have been allowed to continue on uninterrupted. The baby's head is not offensive no matter where it is.

I'm sorry but when you are in public use a bottle! That might be "insensitive" but I don't want to see anyone elses boobs. Mothers deal with the fact that the majority of people in this country don't feel comfortable seeing a woman breastfeed out in the open! And I agree that at 22 months the kid shouldn't still be on the boob to begin with. I know I just made alot of you mad but it is MY right not to have to explain to my 10 year old step son why the woman next to us just popped out her boob. Deal with it already!!!!

Many babies, like my son and my nephew and my neighbor's child refused to take a bottle. EVER. Bottle feeding is not an option for many parents. Breastfeeding is normal.

I'm pretty sure anyone who hasn't breast fed thinks doing it in public is inappropriate. I'm sure once you've done it you're used to it, but it makes tons of people really uncomfortable. I mean, going to the bathroom is natural too, but I don't want to see someone do it. And either would you, right? It's the same thing, sorry.

It doesn't matter what people think about mothers nursing in public. Breastfeeding is a constitutional right (and breastfeeding in public is legal in Vermont).

Yes, I am a nursing mother, and nursed my first child until 20 months. It is natural. Women who nurse are generally discreet. It is those who are offended that make it a big deal

blah..blah..blah... Why is it that "mothers" think they are sooo above everyone else? They think they get special priveleges!! I get soo sick of it!! I'm don not have children but yet I have to always cater to everyone that does. BS!!

There is absolutely NO reason that she should have put a blanket over her baby's head. If she was not showing anything, it shouldn't matter. It's not like she was walking around without a shirt on like some people pretty much do. Even if the baby was 2 years old! I know a lot of people who breastfed until their baby was 3, or 3 1/2. If you're offended by someone feeding their child, maybe you should look away or get over it. That flight attendant was wrong to say anything. If you ask me, the flight attendant was the one trying to be a trouble maker. And by the way, peeing and breastfeeding are two different things for those who don't know that. Peeing is getting rid of something that you don't need. Hopefully you don't feed that to a baby. Breastfeeding is just that. FEEDING a baby. What God intended for babies is obviously going to be the most healthy. And most babies I know don't like having blankets on their heads... they pull it off or start crying.

If you were a mother and needed to feed your baby...would that be "wanting special priviledges"? How would you like it if someone said, "Oh you can't eat for a few more hours...that offends me to see you eating." Besides...they went through the PAINFUL process of childbirth and morning-sickness filled pregnancy...don't they DESERVE a few priviledges?

hats off to this woman for speaking out for breastfeeding moms everywhere! i am currently nursing a 7 month old (as we speak) i am not a shy person, but i am tired of sitting in smelly toilet stalls for fear of offending someone. trying to calm my daughter everytime a toilet flushes and scares her.between me being uncomfortable and the horrible smells and noises, she comes out of a feeding fussier than ever. and for the blanket fanatics why dont you try putting a blanket over your head next time you sit down for a meal. wont be easy when you cant see what your doing or better yet try even spoon feeding a baby under a blanket and hope the spoon gets to her mouth. im infuriated over this subject and the fact that people are so ignorant. 100 years ago bottles hadnt even been invented. would you rather a child starved to death! get over it!

That is stupid. Why didn't she fill a bottle BEFORE the FLIGHT? I'm sorry but I would be totally uncomfortable in a flight with some mother breast feeding her kid. NATURAL OR NOT and I'm a woman.
I have kids and I am feel a responsible mother would plan for her kids needs AHEAD OF TIME. Thanks.

I have mixed views on this issue. I do agree that it was not right of the flight attendent and airline to patronize the poor woman like that. I myself have never flown before but I can just imagine how hectic and scary a plane can be, especially for a child.
I also agree that breasts have become way too sexualized nowadays and that what some women where out in public is simply ridiculous.
However, I do agree with others that breastfeeding should be kept in a intimate and private place. I'm not saying I disagree with breastfeeding, I myself probably will not do it, but if that's your choice, then ok. BUT like others have said, you do not have to watch it. I'm just saying that maybe an alternative should be found for public feedings for those who complain that breastfeeding in public is uncomfortable. Save the intimate experience for at home where you and the baby can both enjoy it.

years and years ago women walked around with their tits hanging out. some women in africa still do. what's the big deal??? i can't see how a breast can be considered "offensive" to someone.
the only reason breasts are considered sexual and forbidden is because we keep 'em covered all the time.
childeren should see more of breasts, then maybe they wouldn't grow up to be such perverts like we have today.
if we make such a big deal about breastfeeding, we might as well chop em off coz that's the only reason they exist.

I was standing by a woman at a party and nuzzled her baby’s head with my finger. Only then did I realize the woman was breastfeeding. My point is that breastfeeding is really quite discreet. The baby’s head covers up almost everything. It was the FLIGHT ATTENDENT who was uncomfortable. I bet not a single other passenger noticed, and the only reason the flight attendant noticed was because she was checking the isle for seatbelts, etc. Sarah, if you don’t want to explain breastfeeding to your stepson, how will you ever discuss sex? You’re socializing him to be uncomfortable too. I’m assuming no one is uncomfortable with a mother feeding her baby. It’s the breast part that people are so uptight about. It’s the suggestion of nudity. Why does nudity make you uncomfortable? Are you associating it with shame or vulgarity? Do you think nudity and sex are the same thing? Those are your issues, and maybe it’s time to deal with them, rather than ask someone else to bury them with a blanket for you.

JS, thank you!!! There is something wrong with a society that finds nudity offensive.

It IS unfortunate that we as a society don't provide mothers with private spaces for breastfeeding. It's also unfortunate that breastfeeding moms have to defend themselves against ignorant, repressed people who can't--or don't want to--deal with reality. The fact is, for everyone who says "fill a bottle ahead of time," "wait and do it at home," breastfeeding is not that simple. A breastfed baby eats every 1 1/2-2 hours, and if you skip a feeding (or two or three), it is dangerous to your health, not just the baby.
As far as catering to mothers and special privileges--breastfeeding is not a special privilege, it is a right. Just like your right to speak your mind. Why don't I complain about that and tell you to keep your opinions in your (private, at-home) diary instead of sharing them with everyone? Why should I have to cater to your freedom of speech? It's called respect.

Sally,
wow, I didn't know you knew so much about the situation. Her flight had been delayed 3!!!! hours maybe (not that she had to)filled a bottle(hate that word) and given her child that but was left with no other options at the time of take off.

Mothering your child at the breast is Natural!!! meaning anything that deviates from that (everybody say it with me) is UNNatural!!!

I have never said this outloud before but I can't stand to see bottles or pacifiers, (I feel they are a poor substite and a lazy way to parent) but I don't voice that to the parents (it is their right to parent in the way they want) I don't like to see it so I look away.

People in our society feel breasts are private and sexual....well how did we come to feel this way....exposure to the breasts being used in this manner...

It goes to say then the way to get people more comfortable with seeing a nursing child is to have repeated exposure to the sight.

I mothered my 1st at the breast until he was 2 yrs 3 months in Public!!!

Some people are just HATERS the flesh is never satified I am due in late Jan and I will Breastfeed My daughter I am Also a nurse what if I refused care because my patient was in pulic what if they were choking and I said I can't help you because the other people are offended in that case many people would die. The attendant was offended not the paying customers (the other Passengers) so she was out of line she put the feeding on Blast so yes she should be fired that was a form of discrimination and she should sue If it were me I would be Rich and set a precedent for nosey a$$ people like her and she was at the back of the plane and noone else complained she should feel lucky not to have received a knock out punch!!!!!

Sounds like a "letter to the airline," was a nice start, but how about a nice call to the Channel XX Hotline. I know that the local news here is always looking for some news to report, especially a human interest story. Just for effect, it would be nice to be able to mention the name of the airline, the name of the attendant, have the attendant's boss interviewed, ask for an official airline policy... the fun continues from there:)

what has happened to us?

I'm just sick about it all...
Do you cover up your cat when she nurses her kittens? Is that gross? Is your cat flaunting her sexuality? Being provocative? Naughty kitty, be good & nice & brainwashed & a slave to your society/government/media...
For those of us who have the ability to see life as it is... The NATURAL beauty of it, cheers!!!
Nothing really left to say-

I'm just amazed....we have a great example here!!! Cats are animals, they feed their kittens in public, they procreate in public and poo in public because they are just that....animals. They don't have respect to others or ethics or any sense of what does living on a civilized comunity means because they act by instinct. We are not animals....

Breasts have one purpose: to feed our babies. I mean, why tell someone to stop doing what their body is meant to do? While you're at it, can you stop breathing please? The sound is bothering me and it reminds me of my ex boyfriend when we had sex. And, don't bother comparing it to having a bowel movement or peeing, both of which are completely unsanitary and smell awful (which is why we flush it down the toilet). Breastfeeding in a totally different body function, one that sustains the life of another human being (and a helpless one at that). Personally I'd want something to shield myself from an obviously nosy flight attendant, but I shouldn't be forced to because someone else doesn't want to look away. I'm going to be flying with my 8 week old at the end of the year to be in my sister's wedding. I reserve the right to nurse her wherever and whenever I want, and if a flight attendant asks me to cover my boob with a blanket I'm going to tell her to cover her face with it instead, so she won't be offended

My three y/o son nurses, and anyone who says that he 'should be weaned' obviously can't see what a great little guy he is, partially due to (genetics, the awesome people in his life, etc, AND) our nursing relationship. We don't nurse in public anymore, as he is active and social, but if he needed to (say for comfort if he fell off of playground equiptment, or during a long wait at the doctors while he's sick) I would do allow him to. If people don't like it.. well, that's sad. If you have to explain it to your children, well, then I feel like nursing my child would be doing society some GOOD. Children should learn how babies (and toddlers/ and some preschoolers even!- as 4 is about the natural weaning age around the world) eat, and feel comfortable with it. Why should a child see a breast as a mere sexual object, when they can see first hand how it gives LIFE.

I nursed both my children until they were almost 2 based on the recommendation of the World Health Organization. My daughter could not tolerate formula in a bottle even once as a substitute (she tried it, and she threw it all up. Turns out she was allergic to the milk proteins used in commercial formula). It's a nice idea to make sure you pump enough breast milk for a plane ride, but your body doesn't always cooperate with your plans. Also, breast milk is perishable, and my kids would not drink it cold from a bottle. So now you have to have a way to make sure you have enough as well as a way to warm it up on the plane. Women should not be confined at home until the children are weaned (even at almost 2 years old), and children should not have to sit under a blanket. Personally, I refuse those airline blankets as well as pillows when offered them for my own "comfort." It's not like they are washed between flights, and how many other people with colds or worse have used them?

I love to nurse in public! 10 yrs ago when my first born was 1mo, my hubby took me out for dinner to celebrate. Because I exclusively breastfeed, we took the baby (a 1mo nurses every 2hrs) and as I started to feed him I was asked to "do that in the bathroom". I was 19, my first baby. I didnt know what to do, I looked at hubby and he smiled and said Its Ok, put his arm around me and no one bothered me again. Five breastfed babies later I proudly will feed my 1yr anywhere. They are happy, healthy and smart. 10 years ago I was young, with no family but the one that was only begining, all it took was a little support. Imagine if hubby would have said "stop that your embarassing me" For all the mothers who would never do it in public, try it, you might find freedom and power that women have been asking, fighting for, for ages.

I believe breastfeeding is best for a baby I dont care what the world health orginazations says about how long to breast feed a child If my kid is sayin "boob mama!!" then its a little to old to be breastfeeding

theresa, if that's how you feel, then it would probably be best if you didn't nurse that long. But the recommendation stands, not only for 2 years, but as for long as breastfeeding in mutually desired. It may not fit nicely into our Western cultural norms, but that doesn't invalidate it. For those of us that have children that can say "milk please?", (I personally don't like my breast to be called a boob, especially by my son)statements like "that's a little too old to be breastfeeding" are hurtful.

Use a bottle or a pump? When a first time mother breastfeed, sometimes the baby won't take a bottle or it may be difficult for a mother to pump.

Do it in the bathroom stall? Are you kidding me? That doesn't deserve a response.

Don't do it in public? How is this possible? If your baby is hungry, you feed them. It's not like a mother is going to find the busiest public place and plop her boob out. Most mothers find a comfortable way to do it as discretely as possible.

Cover up? Yes, some mothers do this to feel more comfortable. There are a lot of new clothing and accessories that mom can buy to help her breastfeed more comfortly and discretely. But, with that said, it is a mother's choice not to. Some babies can't be covered up because of health reasons (they get too hot and it's harder to breathe). As babies get a little older they move around a lot and pull the blanket off.

Some pediatricians recommend breastfeeding to 2 yrs. Why would you not listen to your ped??

Oh, I will only fly Jet Blue. I found this type of rudness from several other airlines. Jet Blue attendants are very nice and respectful.

Hey, I am a breastfeeding mother of a 1 yr old breastfeed my son until he was almost 2, I flew with my son and breastfed him I cant imagine how this lady felt. I live in TN and a group of mothers were at nashville airport last nite one of the biggest travel nights, they were all breastfeeding, I wish i would of knew I would of been there.. I think like others have said its out in the public now so thats great, I get comments from people about my daughter needs to be off the breast but its only from people who have not breastfed, I also find it great that there are alot more younger moms like myself breastfeeding, the moms at the airport on the news were young, its such a wonderful bond I just wish people knew, I agree with the moms who said babys dont like blankets over there heads because they dont.. I do however cover us up if in public, its crazy at first I was worried people would stare when i first breastfed but they didnt, god created breasts for babies not for pleasure..... God Bless..

Oh yeah the pumping things thats funny my son or daughter has NEVER had a bottle so how do u deal with that??? THe bathroom thats just wrong!!!!! Yeah go feed ur baby where everyone poops.. As breastfeeding moms know when ur baby is hungry they get very angry and dont want to wait and they shouldnt have to!!!!

I am planning to travel for the holidays and have a 3 month old who refuses to take a bottle when I am in the room. I plan to breastfeed my child in the airplane. Not only for the confort of my child, but for all of those around us! I would rather have a mother breastfeed next to me than hear the child scream through a 3 hour flight. I believe in a mother's right to breastfeed in public, but I also believe in the public's right not to be offended. Why she refused the blanket is an issue for me.

Just as the flight attendant has the right as a person to ask that the woman accept a blanket, the mother has a right to decline it. The issue is not that the stewardess asked or that the mother denied, but that she was removed from a flight because she was being the best mother possible! Her husband was beside her, she was in the window seat, she was in the back of the plane....ALL of these state that she was already trying to be discreet! When a baby is nursing, there is less of the breast showing because the baby's head covers most of it. She stated that she had no part of her breast showing and I know that that is possible. When I feed my baby, my shirt covers where my baby's head does not. As for a blanket, babies DO NOT like blankets over their heads and I don't blame her for declining. Besides, those blankets on the planes are used for so many other people that it is disgusting to think that I would want to put that on my precious baby's face. No thank you! I support this woman 100%!!

That airline attendant should be terminated with no unemployment benefits. What a deeply horrible person. In fact, I would go so far as to say that anyone who has a problem with breastfeeding is a deeply horrible person. Indeed, that is why God gave us breasts. Not to stuff with silicone and put on display, but to nurture and feed our children with. There is no "magic" age to wean a child. It is up to the mother, so BACK OFF!

I agree with breastfeeding and excercising your right to do so. I also agree with some age comments, and comments about the attendents own mental health. I am a first time mom who plans to breastfeed and will excercise might right to do so but I do believe that there are small minded people in the world and I think it better for me and my child to cover up. Not as to satisfy the small minded but not be interrupted be them.

Kissing in public is legal. Breastfeeding in public is legal. This is a free country. Everyone can choose to exercise any of their legal rights. If anyone is offended by others exercising the rights afforded by this free country, they should refrain frequenting public places.

If I were still breastfeeding, I would whip it out and if you have a problem with it, that's exactly it. It's YOUR problem. My breast is not disgusting. I am not having sex with my baby. What is a bottle? An artificial breast with artificial milk. Bottle-feeding is acceptable in public but not breast-feeding? Then logic tells me that having sex with a real penis in public is not acceptable but an artificial penis in public would be acceptable.

Adults have good immunity in their bodies - infants don't. No need for breastfeeding moms to rush to the nearest restroom to feed their hungry infant subjecting the infant to an unhealthy environment. Instead, adults offended by the sight of breastfeeding infants, please be considerate human beings and hide in the nearest restroom until the offending mother finishes feeding the hungry infant to its satisfaction.

Also, if mother is reasonably discreet in public that is good enough. No need to cover an infant's head with pillows and blankets and subject it to discomfort to please the few who are not worth pleasing. The infant's comfort should be the mother's #1 PRIORITY above all else.

When one is doing what is perfectly legal, that is good enough. It is not important to please everybody as it is impossible to please everybody.

maritagain - actually, yes, Humans ARE animals.

JS - LOVED your post in reply to Sarah and have to echo it: "Those are your issues, and maybe it's time to deal with them, rather than ask someone else to bury them with a blanket for you."

Wonderful.

Motherhood, and breastfeeding is a natural and wonderful thing. I don't have a problem with people breastfeeding their children in public, and I agree with many of the benefits that it affords, especially in regards to equalizing flight cabin pressure. But there is something to be said about discretion. Why have something that is so special and tender go on display for all the public to see? Do we in society have to air everything?

Again... Having Not Been There... I picture this altercation like this:

Flight Attendant: Excuse me, ma'am, would you like a blanket to cover yourself while you nurse your child?
Passenger: No, I DON'T. It's my RIGHT to nurse my child!
FA *goes to get supervisor to assist*
Supervisor: Ma'am, I'm sorry, but I really must ask you to cover yourself while doing that.
P: WHAT?!? WHY in HELL should I have to conform to YOUR standards of repression! This is an OUTRAGE! I'm fully within my rights to NURSE MY CHILD. How DARE you ... *continues to get louder*
S *decides to call security to remove belligerent passenger*
P: *screaming the whole way*

Ugh - I love breastfeeding - did it for all four of mine. But man, I get sick of the militant ones. Just makes it harder for those of us who can provide that benefit to our children. Take the blanket, sweetly say "thank you, I didn't realize so much was showing", and leave it at that. Peaceful flight - and I'll bet dollars to doughnuts the FA's would have loved the child & mom.

Here's how I picture the altercation:

Flight Attendant: Excuse me, ma'am, you're offending me. Please cover your child's head with this blanket that has been barfed on, drooled on, and sneezed on by countless passengers.

Mother: Um, no thanks.

FA: Get off this plane!

Mother: (cries)

Some people say mothers should pump beforehand and use a bottle to feed their babies in public. Some babies absolutely REFUSE to take a bottle, no matter how hungry they are. My mom said I and all my siblings were like that. My new nephew is like that.

Why not just feed them at home? Babies need to eat pretty often. Sometimes they're in public when they get hungry.

Why not cover their heads? Most babies get very upset when their heads are covered and will stop nursing. It's hot, hard for them to breathe, and they can't see their mom. You can't see anything unless you lean REALLY close, anyway, and that would just make you a pervert. ;)

Why not breastfeed in a public restroom? Gross. Would you eat in there?

I can't understand why this would even be an issue. After reading most of the post I see that some people are saying to use a bottle. Here's the problem with that,my 3 month old will not take the bottle from me. When I pump it's for dad to feed her and it's kinda like she knows that I have the "source" of the milk. Everytime I have tried to use a bottle she fights it so that isn't a solution. I personally feel uncomfortable breastfeeding in public, but I will be flying back to the states in a few months and I will proudly breastfeed my daughter at some point of the 8 hour flight (it wont be with Delta)

I breastfed both of my sons until they were 18 months old. They refused to take a bottle of anything until then. By the time they were 1 1/2, I usually only nursed when it was bedtime or for the rare occasion that they were unconsolable with anything else. If any of you non believers and nonunderstanders have never seen a cranky toddler who wants to nurse but is being told "no" than you are lucky. It is not a pretty sight. If it had been me and my son in that situation, people would probably been begging me to nurse him by the time he got halfway through his temper tantrum. I'm sure the stewardess would have been more put out by a screaming child on a long flight than a happily nursing baby.

Nobody said she had to suffocate her child. Dad was there. She was in a window seat. He could've simply held the blanket up as a shield between her & the rest of the plane. She was in the back row - ummm that's where the lavs are, in most planes. All the other passengers would've had to go past her to use them. And as far as the 'barfed on, drooled on, and sneezed on by countless passengers' blanket. Do you honestly think they haven't been washed & sanitized? Please.
Like I said - I'm all for nursing. Love it in fact. Yes, she was 'within her legal rights' - I'm not saying she wasn't. But the other passengers have rights too. Viewpoint is much different depending on whether you're standing in an aisle or sitting, holding your child. Maybe there *was* a lot showing - who knows? We weren't there. I haven't seen a pic of this woman. Maybe she's one who has an 'ample' amount of bosom that the child's head simply didn't cover. Take the blanket & be nice about it. Pleasantness is so under-rated in today's world.

So now the Dad should shield passengers from the nursing child with a blanket???
Should he walk around the plane and also shield any cleavage exposed from women dressed in trendy clothes??
"Excuse me Miss, but I'm going to have to drape my hanky over your bust. That V-neck just leaves too much exposed. How rude, do you not think of others?"
Now, come on.

Ok now you're just being snarky, ssglorio. Women wearing *trendy* clothes aren't his family, nor did they get a request to cover up. He doesn't need to step into that. However, he was directly involved in this particular issue.
We have breastfeeding laws. But we also have public exposure laws. The two aren't mutually exclusive. All I'm saying is, do what nature intended, By All Means, go ahead! I think its wonderful when women are able to nurse their children. But please, have some decorum and courtesy while you are feeding your child.
Like I said before... Pleasantness is under-rated. It's all this *me first, who cares about you* attitude. Compromise is possible - but only when both sides are willing to do so.

Actually, with the financial problems facing airlines today, I DON'T believe the blankets are washed and sanitized after every use. They're cutting corners wherever they can.

True, I do feel snarky when people suggest that nursing should be covered up with blankets merely for some third parties comfort. There isn't a thing unpleasent about nursing, in public or provate. If a person has a phobia about it, then they don't have to look.
Most nursing mothers do a good job of covering up without a silly blanket...my point is that you'll see more boobage coming from the chick with the V-neck that you will see from a baby eating.
It's not about our rights to flip out a breast, it's about a baby's ight to eat without a blanket over their face!! Think about it; how uncomfortable would that be?

It's true that was no infant

I flew US Air and breastfed my daughter, and I must say the crew treated me wonderfully and commented on how well behaved my baby was and how "quiet". I breastfed both my children until they didn't want it anymore (around 1 1/2 - 2 years) and when I was out in public, I used a little receiving blanket or just wore a loose blouse. I was discrete, not ashamed. They were private moments between me and my children, not onlookers.

My thoughts:
I am a mom of an almost-weaned infant. With the rules about liquids and gels on planes, I can't imagine how you could feed a breast-fed baby without actually breast feeding. Pumped milk requires refridgeration and reheating, which is impossible without a cold pack (something that may not be allowed). Forget about bringing jars of baby food, because those weren't allowed the last time I checked. Crackers aren't real nourishment. Also, airplane blankets are notoriously filthy. Adults are encouraged not to use them, becuase of the germs. I did use a special nursing blanket, but my baby didn't always appreciate that! I don't enjoy breastfeeding in public, because I am a private person, but you have to put your child first. There are no private places on airplanes, and the bathrooms are much to small. Actually, taking over the bathroom for the length of time it takes to breastfeed ought to be much more annoying than a loving mother breastfeeding quietly in her seat, next to the baby's father.

one of the wonderful things about US society is we are responsible unto others and this is balanced with our actual rights. this would also fall under good manners as in placing consideration of others (especially while in public) above ourselves. odd that urination was brought up because in some countries it is perfectly legal to go in public (as are other acts), this does not mean I exercise the right. also cold packs are allowed for medications so why not milk? flight attendants will heat things upon request. i've seen my galpal breastfeed in the back of a taxi, babies adjust. i think it's like sex, not every event has to be that perfect moment. also your comfort level as a parent does not invalidate others, being considerate & discreet does not break the parental bond. would the mum react the same in church? nursing necklaces & those scarf/sling things are also good. in my view it's not the act or what may/may not be showing but the lack of decorum in resolving the situation. consideration maintains dignity

I strongly feel that public breastfeeding should be illegal in all 50 states, Public breastfeeding is very rude and disrespectful which a free society teaches people to be rude and impolite. I have no breastfeeding at all in general just as long as its a private matter between the mother and child like taking it to a bathroom stall or a car. Discretion isnt good enough because your still bringing your bodily functions out in public regardless. I mean if public breastfeeding moms can use discretion, then in that case, lets use discretion if we are gonna pull out a jar to urinate-defacate in public with a blanket

Motherhood, and breastfeeding is a natural and wonderful thing. I don't have a problem with people breastfeeding their children in public, and I agree with many of the benefits that it affords, especially in regards to equalizing flight cabin pressure. But there is something to be said about discretion. Why have something that is so special and tender go on display for all the public to see? Do we in society have to air everything?

Posted by SFGirl on November 27 at 04:54pm

Well i do SFgirl, its very rude, impolite and unsanitary for my compforts along with everyone elses. You maybe right that motherhood and breastfeeding is a natural wonderful thing. And so is urinating-defacating, thats natural too, but that doesnt mean i would pull out my penis in public to urinate in a jar. All public breastfeeding is showing is that your a bad role model as a mom to society and your making that child out to be a bad example too as well.

Actually, with the financial problems facing airlines today, I DON'T believe the blankets are washed and sanitized after every use. They're cutting corners wherever they can.

Posted by Rachel on December 01 at 02:59pm

Rachel...this is just a nother excuse for your to showoff some skin, i mean there is no excuses of why you should breastfeed in public, just like theres no excuses of why you cant find a private location to feed your child or find discretion. You dont believe that airline blankets are washed and santized ha??. Oh my gosh what a copout excuse for all you LIBERAL IRRESPONSIBLE Nurse-ins to try and find anyway to show off an order to get 15 minutes of fame. Rachel...whats your next excuse gonna be if i sugessted to you liberal nurse-ins to bring your own blanket in an airplane if you dont like using those airline blankets that are supposivley not washed and sanitized??. Rachel...breastfeeding is a natural bodily function like urinating-defacating, why is it that im not full of excuses like to

Kissing in public is legal. Breastfeeding in public is legal. This is a free country. Everyone can choose to exercise any of their legal rights. If anyone is offended by others exercising the rights afforded by this free country, they should refrain frequenting public places.

Posted by Su on November 22 at 07:39pm

No actually your wrong Su, just because its legal to bring your bad filthy habits out in public and that its a freecountry to do whatever, that doesnt mean you should cross a certain line. All we are asking is for common curtiousy, dignity and politeness for THEM to take it somewhere private where it wont offend others. Your way of thinking is why society is very rude and inconsiderate to one a nother. Public breastfeeding is a very rude behaviour that tends to become a public nuisense after a while. What if america passed Laws stating that it was ok to urinate-defacate in public Su?? would you do that too in front of everyone in public but then say and say exactly what you said in this post ?

I work at a restaurant and it recently came up that a woman was breastfeeding her baby. This guy I was working with was like"Oh my God, can you beleive she's doing that?" So I said where would you like her to do it? He said she should go to the bathroom!! I couldn't beleive he actually said that! Do you eat your dinner on the toilet?!I really just want to hear one GOOD reason that a baby nursing is ever offensive! If I wear very revealing shirts that's ok, but nurturing the human race is wrong! WHAT IS WRONG WITH PEOPLE?

Posted by amanda on November 17 at 05:32pm

whats wrong with us people?? is that what your asking Amanda??, People are trying to eat Amanda, they dont wanna see some large OVERSIZED TICK latched onto some womens sexual private parts like as if we are watching an R rated adult film. When we go into public restaurants to eat, we look forward for a peaceful nightout, we are not asking for a live strip show to be performed in a restaurant.

Amanda...there is nothing wrong with nurturing a child ok!!!. But what i do have a problem about it is when women use this breastfeeding behaviour thing as a weapon to try and showoff about it so they can impose there naked dirty images on others. We are asking you women who have babies to be good breastfeeding stay-at-home mothers. Where not asking you to be sl*ts and wh*res about it. You nurse-ins are looking for attention like as if just because you have children that it makes you feel like your the center of the world kind of thing. Breastfeeding should be a private matter between the mother and child, it should not be shared with the rest of the customers an order to make it MY BUSINESS and everyone esles BUSINESS. We dont care how you raise your children or how you feed them, we dont wanna see it. All we are asking is MANNERS MANNERS MANNERS from you lowclass LIBERAL NUTCASE nurse-ins

I am a mother of two and breast fed. I have read and been told that shortly after a year it is not recommended to breast feed becuase you don't have any more nurtients for the baby. I also know how hard it is to pump a bottle and if you don't know you shouldn't suggest it. She should have been able to feed her baby as she pleases. If it was more about keeping the baby calm then about making a point she would have made some sort of effort to cover up at least temporarliy while the stuart was there. The stuartess was wrong but the mother handled the situation badly.

Sean went a little overboard, You can't breastfeed in a public bathroom but I agree if you are going to do it at your table you should make it discreet. If anyone is being nosey enough to notice t