10. Know What You’ll Say
The thing many women dread most when they conceptualize about breastfeeding in public is being approached by some offended party without knowing how to handle the situation. Think about what your response will be if you’re approached by a security guard, manager or other public figure. Often, a little pushback diffuses the situation – “Would YOU eat dinner in the bathroom?” – as does a reminder that nursing is your legal right. If another patron is insistently complaining, suggest that they be relocated to a spot where you’re out of their range of sight. The Human Rights Commission of British Columbia offers a handout which details a woman’s rights to publicly breastfeed, and keeping a copy on your person might help you feel empowered in the event of a confrontation.
Know that, in rare situations, standing up for your rights in the moment may not be worthwhile in the face of someone who truly intends to rile or bully you. In those cases, there is no shame in leaving the area – you’ve done nothing wrong. Your rights were violated, and you didn’t want to be subjected to continued abuse. If something like this happens, it’s wise to follow up with a letter or an email to the highest possible member of an establishment’s management, as most won’t take kindly to the potential PR faux pas that is denying a woman her right to breastfeed.
