Black Breastfeeding Week Celebration as part of National Breastfeeding Month

Springfield Celebrates Black Breastfeeding Week at City Hall

08/25/2022 | City News

Mayor Domenic J. Sarno, Councilor Tracye Whitfield, HHS Commissioner Helen Caulton-Harris, City Solicitor Talia Gee, and Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer Judi Crowell joined Shenell Ford of Heart2Heartbeat Lactation & Wellness and the Breastfeeding Community Action Circle to recognize and support National Black Breastfeeding Week during National Breastfeeding Month.

Mayor Sarno issued a proclamation declaring August 25–31, 2022, as Black Breastfeeding Week in Springfield, while Councilor Whitfield presented a city council proclamation recognizing the entire month of August as National Breastfeeding Month.

Mayor Sarno praised Shenell Ford:
“I commend Ms. Ford – ‘Shenell.’ This young lady has really worked hard to get the word out and increase awareness. She has helped to educate and support others on this very important nurturing and public health issue.”

He also highlighted the establishment of a dedicated lactation room in City Hall, made possible through advocacy by Shenell Ford and City Solicitor Talia Gee, offering city employees a private and comfortable space for lactation needs.

National Breastfeeding Month includes a series of observances throughout August:

• World Breastfeeding Week (Aug. 1–7)
• Native Breastfeeding Week (Aug. 9–15)
• Infant and Young Child Feeding in Emergencies (Aug. 16–24)
• Black Breastfeeding Week (Aug. 25–31)

Black Breastfeeding Week was founded by Kimberly Seals Allers, Kiddada Green, and Anayah Sangodele-Ayoka to spotlight the unique challenges, triumphs, and beauty of Black breastfeeding.

The 2022 celebration marked the 10th year of Black Breastfeeding Week with the theme “10 Years, a New Foundation” — honoring a decade of advocacy, visibility, and culturally grounded care.