The Good Work of the Coalition

The September MSBC conference was a good time indeed. 

What made it so good?

Many details were addressed for our convenience and comfort. More significantly, the agenda was excellent. The roster of expert speakers shared knowledge that was useful whether an experienced or aspiring IBCLC. 

Another important aspect was that MSBC president, Emily Elting, presented the updated Strategic Plan. As one who has volunteered with non-profits many times, I appreciated this message. The time and attention the board took to collect information and review goals takes effort with a valuable goal. A clear focus is needed, especially as a coalition is, by definition, “an alliance for combined action.”

The Mission of the MSBC is: To empower and nurture Maine families throughout their human milk feeding journeys.

Combining our actions, being part of a broad network, is key. A wide circle of advocates expands where and how often we meet families. Each place is an opportunity to connect when families have questions and an opportunity to provide information.

At the recent conference, advocacy was the focus of an interactive workshop led by Paula Norcott. She first instructed the audience to write all the ways they support breastfeeding.

There were varied replies. 

Advocacy can be: helping a breastfeeding person arrange library chairs for comfort. It can be pleasantly clarifying a myth about breastfeeding that you hear in a cliche. As Paula Norcott pointed out, there is a lot we know about lactation and breast milk though don’t assume everyone knows that, too.

This expanded the idea of support and what advocacy can be. 

These are valid strategies for making small changes. Importantly, these present and encourage a more lactation-positive attitude in our culture. We can connect with a diverse audience including people who do not have children and do not breastfeed. 

The point is this:
Breastfeeding/human milk feeding is normal. And it’s possible.

This attitude affects clinical and legislative policies. It certainly helped to improve guidelines for workplace support.

Vision: Healthy beginnings, supported families, thriving communities.

The conference was a wonderful place to connect in person. We were educated and encouraged in our advocacy skills, introduced to more techniques and resources for support. 

Thank you to the organizers who took care of every little detail and to the speakers, Jan Tedder, Laura Kuhs, Megan Moran, Paula Norcott and Lisa Sheer. Such a well organized conference reflects the strength of this organization.  I look forward to the next excellent conference.