InfoCrap and Breastfeeding

Hello Dear Readers,

So, a couple of folks recently linked on my facebook page to an article in the New York Times, "Breast Milk Donated or Sold Online Is Often Tainted, Study Says." Reading the article, I discovered that this is classic InfoCrap of the Drawing Spurious Conclusions and Sampling Error Variety. The study only uses PURCHASED breastmilk. I think the women who want to GIVE AWAY their precious liquid gold are a very different population. The article also implies, by poor clarity and placement of lists, that Eats on Feets is a breast milk SELLING site, not donating, which is NOT TRUE.

What is InfoCrap? Well, until this week, it was going to be the name of my next big project/blog/perhaps book. But someone has it at gmail and blogger. So while looking for a new name, I'll just leave that as a "tickler" out there.

But none of you mamas and breastfeeding supporters will be in the LEAST surprised to find yet another article in the mainstream media which is misconstruing scientific studies to draw alarmist conclusion and sell papers/clicks/eyeballs.

Heavy sigh.

Much love,
Suzi

"Justice" and Breastfeeding

Okay so this is fairly absurd, not to mention ironic in "The Show Me State."

http://www.kansascity.com/2013/10/18/4562040/breastfeeding-mom-faces-penalties.html

I'd like to take a moment to point out that the fine state of Oregon is one of the eleven alluded to in the article which allows exemption from jury duty for breastfeeding mothers. Because WE believe in freedom, and babies. (Sticks out tongue in vaguely Southeast direction.) Even California will let you off the hook for being sole caregiver of a kiddo under five.

So that said, I will say that in my experience it usually helps to start with factual statements of need in a polite tone. "I would like to serve my civic duty, but my son is dependent on me for food and child care, and my first responsibility is to him." Or something. Meanwhile I'm pleased to see that some proposed legislation is on the docket in MO. It's 2013, people. Babies matter. Other self-righteous statements of indignance.

Mama Suzi is on your side, ladies.

Much love,
Suzi