“Both my sons are built so tough, and I think it’s because of the breast milk"
Pasadena Star News reports that a photo exhibition showcasing Asian American mothers breastfeeding is being held in Los Angeles.
Launched by the Asian Breastfeeding Task Force of Los Angeles County, the free photo exhibit is open everyday in August to the public at Live Oak Park Community Center and Temple City.
The exhibit features seventeen mothers posing with their babies whilst breastfeeding. Among the mothers featured in the exhibition is Filipina American Amanda Reyes. Reyes had she joined the Asian Breastfeeding Task Force of Los Angeles after she felt discouraged and unsupported by her immediate community.
She sad breastfeeding in the Philippines is reflective of status – only lower income mothers breastfeed. Nonetheless, she chose to breastfeed her children despite her family not approving.
“Both my sons are built so tough, and I think it’s because of the breast milk,” she told Pasadena Star News.
The exhibition coincides with National Breastfeeding Month and aims to normalise breastfeeding among Asian families by showcasing its beauty.
To-wen Tseng, the coordinator behind the Asian Breastfeeding Task Force of Los Angeles County, said a professional photographer was hired for the exhibition.
“When we were organizing this project, the venues were concerned about how the public would view the images,” Tseng said. “So we’re aware that the stigma is still there.”
Where: 200 N. Spring St., Los Angeles (L.A. City Hall Breezeway) and 10144 Bogue St, Temple City (Live Oak Park Community Center)
When: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. everyday throughout August
Cost: Free