CTV News Ottawa

reidjr
Yes there has to be limits and i do agree people should be open minded.Feeding the baby in a pool area or public area is fine.But it should not be allowed in food courts or resturants.

Nanc
Well I think that there are receiving blankets and even special throws you can put on to cover up just being you are comfortable breast feeding your child in public doesn't mean that the general public needs to be comfortable with it. Some people are very private and don't want their children being exposed to other peoples private parts and that my dear is considered a private part!

Chantal
Breastfeeding is natural. Would the lifeguard go up to some lady in a bikini asking her to cover up the breasts hanging around, probably more so than the breastfeeding breast? I highly doubt that. In today's society, breast = sex. Plain and simple. The law protects mothers to bf in public. Would you put limitations on where to give your child a bottle? And wasn't it a few years ago that women in Ottawa were allowed to be topless? C'mon people, be happy of the good that bf is doing to society. Women, we need to stick together (all of us, including those who don't bf) because our ancestors have worked too hard to make women equal in society. I will continue to feed my babies, my toddlers anywhere I please, and with pride.

AJ
Does the words "decorum" and "modesty" mean anything to this mother and the others who want to protest? Is it any wonder that young people are confused? Just look at the way some young women dress - breasts practically hanging out, and skin-tight jeans which leave virtually nothing to the imagination. Yes, breastfeeding is a natural activity, but so are other things, but we do not do them all in public. These mothers need to get a life and set a better example for their children.

Chantal
What???!!! reidjr: why in the world wouldn't we be able to feed our baby in the food court or a restaurant? Don't you eat there? I don't get it.

Receiving blankets are to keep babies warm. And,as for privacy, breast are made for bf. They are what some consider "private parts" but they are being used for the right purpose.

And as for setting an example for children, children should be setting the example to adults like AJ. They admire it and they can finally see what they are actually meant for!

These moms HAVE a life, they are actually contributing to saving and helping their children live a healthy life.

Bravo to Danielle and all the other moms who stand up for our rights.

Shannon
Why is this even a question? There should be absolutely no limits placed on breastfeeding in public, any more than there should be on bottle feeding in public. A breast is not a "private part" when it's the most appropriate food source for a baby. If you don't want to see it, there's a simple solution: don't look.

Windex
I don't believe in limiting where or when...However why does this need to be a big deal...the lifeguard was unaware of the policy - they made mistake...what does a sit in do? I am pro public breastfeeding (having just finished breastfeeding my fourth child not even a year ago) but having to walk into an area with a breastfeeding sit in would turn me off to the whole thing and would not promote it to me...

Laurel
I'm very surprised by some of the comments I've read here. There is nothing dirty or wrong or sexual about breastfeeding, and let's face it, when baby is hungry, baby is HUNGRY!

Breastfeed until your baby's content, ladies.

And in response to this comment:

"These mothers need to get a life and set a better example for their children."

These mothers have done better - they have PROVIDED life, and are setting the example of how best to nurture one's child, both nutritionally and emotionally.

Shannon
The ridiculous part about this is that there's really no issue with breastfeeding a baby at a swimming pool; skimpy bathing suits mean that most of everyone's body is visible anyway, including the breast. The lifeguard's problem therefore wasn't the breast itself, nor is it generally the problem of anyone else who objects to it. The issue is fundamentally that people are squicked by the idea of breastfeeding. And that's not enough of a reason for someone to have to hide in a closet to feed their child.

Amy
People should be teaching their children that a breast was made to feed a baby and that there is nothing sexual about breastfeeding.

More women would feel comfortable breastfeeding if closed-minded people didn't think it was so shocking, and then we'd all be better off.

reidjr
Chantal

Health Issue
There could be some health issue if some women does not wash her hands after feeding her baby and then went to touch items.THere is a reason your not allowed to be topless in a resturant.

Peoples other rights
There will be some that may not feel right while eating.

trulli4ever
You can breastfeed anywhere you want. However, be mindful and put a receiving blanket over the side you are breastfeeding. I don't need to see your exposed tit.

if you were at home and you had guests I would think you would place a receiving blanket over your shoulder. A little digression please.

Mr. D.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with breastfeeding in public; the problem is with prudish people who are trying to hide a reality of life from children.
Decorum & modesty are irrelevant in this case; anyone offended by the feeding of an infant is the one with issues.
More maturity and less ignorance goes a long way.

equality
women need to stand up for their rights & stop caving in to men. There should also be topfree equality like in many other countries

Female
Breastfeeding should not happen in public. It is an intmate moment between the mother, who did not plan her outting accordingly, and the baby. To me this is not acceptable at all.

Bev
You have the right to breast feed your baby, but please use a receiving blanket,some people may be offended.

jt
equality
To start a fair its not caving into men as a fair amount both genders complain.As for your other remark womens in canada in alot of areas have many advantages over men.

Julia
Plain and simple

You have rights as a nursing mother. For example, you have the right to breastfeed a child in a public area. No one should prevent you from nursing your child simply because you are in a public area. They should not ask you to “cover up”, disturb you, or ask you to move to another area that is more “discreet”.

Jack
I am a male who feels that breastfeeding is natural, healthy and nothing to be ashamed of. I fail to see how seeing a mother breastfeeding her baby will or should traumatize a child or anyone else. Surely children see more of the female breast in some of the so-called fashions worn today and in advertising in all media. When I see a woman breastfeeding I neither stare nor look away. I treat it as a natural function and I would certainly not insult her with any foolish or sexist remark. If the sight of a woman performing the perfectly natural function of feeding her baby disturbs you just don't look. In the past women were relegated to washrooms or other private places, many of them not what I would consider hygienic. Thankfully that is now (or should be) in the past. To ask a woman to cover up with a blanket is an infringement on her rights and of her baby's rights and comfort. Com onm people. Let's have some respect for the lady.

Steve
I was shocked that this was a leading story on the 6 o'clock news! Many more realities are important for topics. I understand a feel good topic about a misunderstanding by pool staff that was corrected before we sign off but to report this as though it was somehow important to all of Ottawa.

Let's not forget that women's topless rights were brought in over 10 years ago! They aren't flaunting for attention and neither should the breastfeeding woman at the pool decide it was newsworthy. Even more shameful is CJOH flaunting in the name of news. Everyone agrees its natural and doesn't have to be hidden but deciding to use it as the news of the day? Ten year old news!

Cindy
I breast fed three children but I was always considerate of other peoples feelings and incidentally, showed a bit of modesty, by covering up with a small blanket. While breast feeding is natural and healthy for mother and baby, I feel that we need to be considerate of others as well and there is no harm in being discreet while nursing children in public. Just put a little blanket over your shoulder, some people just arent that comfortable with bared breasts.

don
Do people not use common sense or even show a little consideration for other people anymore? Yes you should be allowed to breastfeed anywhere you choose, but, there are blankets and other wraps to cover up when breastfeeding. Not everyone needs to see all your, what used to be called, private parts, especially young children out for a swim. For sure, breastfeed, but use some discretion and class!!

Jim in Prescott
This is one of those situations where it SHOULD be the desire of all to reach a compromise. My daughter-in-law breast-fed my grandson and all of us in the family fully supported her. On the other hand, it is obviously something with which some are uncomfortable. Surely we Canadians - known everywhere as people who can find a way to satisfy everyone - can permit (and encourage)breast feeding to take place and the mothers who do breast feed can do so taking simple precautions to not make others uncomfortable. I would not want sex, washing of "private parts" or urination - all very natural activities - to be performed without an effort to keep it a private act by providing a simple shield from others either. Bless all mothers - where would we be without them?

lee
There is nothing wrong with breast feeding in public, however, what happened to having a little modesty and a lot of class. Use a receiving blanket like your mother and grandmother did. Not everyone, young or old, wants to look at a womans breast in public, whether at a swimming pool, shopping or in a restaurant.

Sue
Breastfeeding might be natural and fine, but, there is no reason why this mom could not have been more respectful of her surroundings and used a baby blanket to cover up. People tend to go overboard with some of their "rights".

Wendy
Breastfeeding is a fact of life. You go to zoos and see the apes and monkeys feeding their babies right out in the open..what is the difference..give it up people and accept that breastfeeding is the best milk a baby can have no matter where that baby is fed

Monica
Mothers should be asked to cover up while nursing only if bottle-feeding mothers are also asked to cover up when feeding their babies.

Absolutely Not
Breastfeeding should be banned in public places and so should men with hairy armpits wearing muscle shirts.

Julie
Bravo to CTV-Ottawa and Joanne Schnurr for bringing attention to this issue. I have worked with mothers and their breastfeeding babies for over ten years. What I have observed is that society's discomfort with breastfeeding has more to do with their own hang-ups and issues than it has to do with the actual act of breastfeeding. Can you blame them? Most of us have been bombarded with sexualized images of women since our childhood and then includes women's breasts.....no wonder people think it is indecent and kinda creepy that a baby actually sucks on a breast. There are also generations of people who weren't breastfed and have had no exposure to it. It isn't a bad thing, people, nor is it offensive. If you feel uncomfortable and shy about it, it's okay...just look away.

Mango
I am horrified by some of these responses.

Smoking has been strategically banned so that people understand that it is unacceptable behaviour.

Breastfeeding should be encouraged so all people understand that it is normal and good.

I am embarrassed that this is yet another issue plagued by ignorance that I will have to deal with as a new mother.

LLLinda
Babies need feeding when they feel hungry -- moms can't always "plan" for it, nor should they have to. Breastfeeding means being able to meet your child's needs whenever and wherever they arise. Human milk is also antibacterial so there are no hygiene issues to nursing in public. I doubt a sit-in will change attitudes but if it makes this mom feel more confident about nursing in public, go for it! Formula risks include infant mortality and morbity, including in Canada -- maybe that's what we should be objecting to.

cameo
We must respect cultures. In my culture breastfeeding is natural and is done almost anywhere within reason, as long as there is cover. Letting your breast hang out and struggling to get baby to latch on, is perceived as inappropriate by most. I mean years back they went topless in Ottawa. The only people I saw topless were these 2 girls on parliment hill, Canada Day 1999. And a slew of skater boys behind them making suggestive sexual remarks, laughing. All the families...left. Picking on a breastfeeder is unfair!!

Brenda
I agree with the idea of putting a light blanket or shawl over your shoulder when you are breast feeding. I think it is being considerate of others as not everyone feels the same way as you do. The problem is these days a lot of people do not consider others and that is why there are so many laws and by laws in our world.

Melissa Wright : Ottawa Ont
This is just plain...gross.

Think about all the things people do in public pools, would you want to have your baby taking that in as well? I wouldn't.

Brest feeding should be a private event in any case. When I'm out at the mall or at the grocery store, i really don't need or want to see a women breast feeding. There are just some things that need to be left private and this is one of the.

Also many stores and public places offer comfortable private places to nurse. It just so happens that women feel they are entitled to nurse anywhere and often ignore them.

Miss Vicky
"an intimate moment"? Give me a break. It's feeding - something completely natural, something that happens multiple times daily. Would you have someone give their kid a bottle in complete privacy? How about a snack of cheerios? Would you expect to have to take your Starbucks into a toilet stall on your coffee break? Anyone who questions the right of a mother to breastfeed when and where the child requires it needs to educate themselves about the benefits of breastmilk to a baby's health. Or simply mind their own business.

Frankly, I'm offended that CTV feels it needs to ask this question at all.

jve
Anytime, anywhere. Period.

susie ;)
I cannot believe how many ignorant people have taken the time to post to this thread. Breasts are for breastfeeding, human babies are supposed to drink human milk. If breastfeeding makes you uncomfortable, stay home.



Losers.

JC
This is a clear case of violation of the law. Health Canada promotes breastfeeding anywhere, anytime. Toplessness is legal in Ontario.

It's ridiculous that people are so skittish about breastfeeding. It's no wonder so many women give up so early. WHO recommends breastfeeding for the first two years. Canadian Pediatric Society recommends it for the first year. What exactly are people afraid of here?

Rural Mother
I breastfed three children, and yes there were times they demanded to be fed when we were out in public - despite our best plans! But no one ever saw my exposed breast and my babies never seemed uncomfortable under a strategically placed receiving blanket. A little modesty in all things would go a long way in today's world - and it has nothing to do with caving in to men!

BD
WOW! It is so sad to see so many uneducated people about breastfeeding.Some people think that when mother's bf they fully expose themselves. There is a whole industry for women who want to bf comfortably and with discretion. Specially designed tops so mothers can bf easily and without 'exposing' themselves.

'Health Issue
There could be some health issue if some women does not wash her hands after feeding her baby and then went to touch items.There is a reason your not allowed to be topless in a restaurant.'
Seem to be confusing some issues with this statement. Bf does not mean being topless....health issue? Probably meant a public health issue since the health benefits and benefits to our health care system are astronomical. If I get this right, the breast goes into the baby's mouth. Bf and breast milk is extremely clean and breast milk has actually antibacterial properties.
'Feeding the baby in a pool area or public area is fine.But it should not be allowed in food courts or restaurants.'

That comment is hilarious. BF should be allowed in public areas but not in food courts? I believe a food court is a public area and a place for feeding.

We cannot have intimate moments in public? We have to hide? I guess us 'Adults' have never been hungry after leaving home? Unfortunately we cannot buy breast milk at any booth and cannot force our hungry babies to wait. I eat when I am hungry. My young kids eat when they are hungry. Why can't we feed our infants when they are hungry?

All comes down to lack of understanding and education.

lindsay
Breastfeeding is natural and a normal part of a babies life. It's not like the breast is hanging out for a show. The blankets and cover ups make it way more noticeable. It is a part of life. Really their are way better things to spend our time on. Of course it should be aloud. Nobody has a problem in Africa with it, they even show it all over ads on t.v.

Genevieve
If health issues are a concern, should children under the age of 8 with their runny noses and sneezes, children 8 and 18 because they are usually carriers of the flu and mono, and anyone who has allergies, has gone to a toilet, used a public door or transit be forbidden from using public eating areas?

Where would you set the limit?

Breast-milk is FULL of antibodies that protect babies and children. Also, it's not like mothers get covered in milk. It does not splash everywhere and generally, you don't get milk on your hands. I do know that 35% of men don't wash their hands after peeing though... yeah, Google it. Which would you rather have on your door handle?

AS for people's rights, first babies/kids are people, therefore they have rights. Second, as long as you are more then 2 feet away, you probably won't see anything but a sleeping baby. Don't stare and you won't see anything.

I wouldn't cover up my baby because I don't usually eat under a tablecloth as I find it claustrophobic, inconvenient to conversations and hot. Why can't we have the same respect for babies as we do adults?

Also, outings with new babies are ALWAYS very well planned, unfortunately babies aren't always predictable. They enjoy snacks as much as adults. Can't fault anyone for that.

In the 1900's showing ankles and elbows was taboo. Can you imagine those as sex symbols today?

Breasts ARE meant for feeding, unfortunate sex symbols have turned them into something they aren't: sexual toys. We need to take back our bodies and realize they are beautiful and have a higher purpose then playthings for partners. Breasts feed, breasts heal and breasts comfort for free. Name me something else that is that magical. I don't think you can.

She Who Rolls Her Eyes
Why is always the chubby women who want to breastfeed in public? Have they no self-respect. Women for eons have managed to feed their kids without letting their floppy boobs hang out, what's up with women today?

Graham
Keep it out of restaurants. I had a mother breast feed her child, exposing more than she needed to, right beside me in a nice restaurant. Let the granola crunchers say what they want, but this is NOT acceptable. Our parents didn't do it, so why must women now feel they can do it anywhere?

Liz
"Health Issue
There could be some health issue if some women does not wash her hands after feeding her baby and then went to touch items.THere is a reason your not allowed to be topless in a resturant."

There is more of a health issue with touching mints at a restaurant than after a mother breastfeeds her baby. What, do you think milk sprays everywhere, and wait, exactly what is the health risk of breast milk? or are you commenting on the cleanliness of a breast versus, let's say, scratching your head and getting dandruff all over my food as you walk by?

BD
I am a father and a proud supporter of breast feeding.

It saddens me the more I read some of this comments.

'You have the right to breast feed your baby, but please use a receiving blanket,some people may be offended.'

It is very sad at the thought that anyone would be offended or object to breast feeding.

'Also many stores and public places offer comfortable private places to nurse. It just so happens that women feel they are entitled to nurse anywhere and often ignore them.'

Really...that is really nice of public places to isolate and make mother's feel ashamed of BF and have to hide them in these 'private places'. Entitled to nurse anywhere...why not? I get to eat anywhere I choose?

Sure it makes more sense to make the mother drag her infant and possibly other young children to this private Bat Cave to hide out then comfort and respond to your baby's needs.

ohpab
So you want to ban breastfeeding in food courts and restaurants but an area sensitive to out side contamination such as a pool, it is o.k. to breastfeed in? I'm all for allowing breast feeding in public but i think that if your going to ban it from some areas because of health issues you should ban if from all areas where it might be a factor.

kerrilynn
I breastfed seven children, including a set of twins. None of them would allow me to cover them with a blanket. I don't think anyone would like to eat with a blanket over their head! I have breastfed on a train, at pools, at the beach, while at parties, at concerts(Tragically Hip), weddings, funerals, restaurants, parks, malls, museums, barns, libraries, in a boat,in a canoe, in a trailer, in a pool, in a garden, cross legged on the ground,at 3rd base at a Blue Jays game, front seats at a Maple Leafs game,while listening to the Dali Lama in person, proclaiming the importance of our babies feeding from their mothers, and everywhere in between! I often fed two at a time as well! Breastfeeding is natural and it is normal!!

Deviates are Everywhere
I guess what this boils down to is some people see sexual situations whenever they see a part of a woman's body, even when the action is not sexual in nature.

It's time that we recognized that it isn't these Mom's who are wrong, it's the people who see this as sexual who are sick.

We need to take these sick people who see breast feeding as sexual, off the streets, perhaps even wonder if they are deviates?

corrinne
Cover it up, it's really not that hard, take other peoples values and children into consideration!

Wendy
Breastfeeding is just feeding. Anytime, anywhere, anyone - EVERYONE. It is normal. It is the standard. Get over your hang-ups, people, it's just a baby eating.

T in AB
Natural - sure...
Choice of discretion - sure...

Respect for other people's cultures - meh, what ever - right?

No more criticizing what other cultures do or wear in public though.

No complaints if a breast is out for feeding (some chose to expose more than is "needed") and some guy choses to stare... how ever sick that is...

Give it time, we will all become more tolerant, people will eventually accept the breast is a functional body part and not erotic (so enhancements will stop) and we'll all get along happily.

Somehow I don't see it all happening that way mind you.

Al
I have a daughter who breastfeeds and she does cover up. I understand that it is a "natural" thing but I do agree that in some instances there should be limits to where "open view" breastfeeding can take place. However, if we all had the gift of common sense, this would not be an issue.

Michael
[quote] Monica
Mothers should be asked to cover up while nursing only if bottle-feeding mothers are also asked to cover up when feeding their babies.

Well, that has to be the most foolish response I've seen yet.

Maria
I find it curious that in light of the fact that breasts are regularily seen on TV, movies and magazines. Yet, when they are being used for what they are supposed to be used for people find it offensive. It really doesn't make sense.

Mom of 2 breastfed babies
I am so glad that there are people who are willing to educate the public about breastfeeding. For those of you who have never done it I would like to explain how difficult it is to have a blanket over a babies head in the summer or when they are getting older. They are fully capable of pulling the blanket off and THAT can be un-hygienic (a blanket that is always falling off and on the floor). I must say that in the last few years there have been a lot of convenience rooms made for families to stop and BF the babies... but does anyone really like to sit in a bathroom to eat? You feel like you are being punished to feed your child. Try and keep a 3 year old in the bathroom with you when you are trying to feed - even more fun. I am glad the city has apologized and maybe they should educated the staff and put a BF friendly signs up.
For the person who said we need to wash our hands first... IF you truly believe that all the people in the food court eating have washed their hands first ... I would love to live in your bubble for a day.

Loretta
When the baby needs to be fed, you feed it, anywhere, anytime. But some women really lack discretion & expose themselves unnecessarily. Maternity shops sell tops especially designed for nursing mothers. They allow for discreet nursing. There really is no need to cover a baby's head. Just the top of the breast. I don't need to see your breasts anymore than I need to see a plumber's butt. And butts serve a good purpose too. :)

a. nony. mouse
Regarding the 'health' issue that has been raised, a breast (or two) are not in an of themselves 'dirty'. But breastmilk is a bodily fluid that can contain (and thus spread) disease. In that way I can see there being an issue (however small the chances are that breastmilk will go flying all over the place).

I've got not problem with breastfeeding, but so long as breasts are normally covered when dressing for leaving the house, they should also be (mostly) covered when breastfeeding in public. It's not even necessary to cover the baby's face, just fling a blanket or shawl over your shoulder if you're not wearing a shirt that facilitates feeding without exposing the whole breast.

Having a right to do something doesn't also mean you get to disregard others' rights. Such as shopping or walking down a street without being exposed to someone's bare breast- which as much as some people don't like, is still not something that is socially acceptable in our society. Even in more 'liberal' cultures than ours, bare breasts are usually limited to beaches and sunbathing.

marc
The sad part is young children understand and are accepting of public breastfeeding more than most alduts posting here. Let mothers breastfeed whenever and however THEY feel most comfortable and lets not let our adult hangups about this get in the way of living our lives. Time to move on from this.

Al Lyons
I think people should lighten up. I can't believe that someone made a fuss about a woman feeding her baby...They need to get a life...

Glenn
I think if it doesn't get out of hand and it's done discretly, what is the problem here people.
It's a natural thing.
What next, we can't burp in public.
We have a law women can go topless in downtown ottawa on sparks streeet but people complain about breatfeeding.
Just crazy

Julie mother 2b
My Hope from this article.
I sincerely hope that anyone who has read this article and is Pro-Breastfeeding, will stand up and say something if they witness a breastfeeding mother being “abused” while breastfeeding their child in public.
I feel strongly that the only way to chance people fears and ignorance on the subject of breastfeeding, (and kid you not from the comments read on this article we are talking about fears and ignorance of the subject matter, ) to change public opinion we have to act as a mass.
Stand up and say something!
As to the issue of to cover up or not, I think it is a personal comfort choice and not a society dictatorship. A breastfeeding mother, should do what SHE feels is best because if covering up makes her feel better then the end result is that the child feeding while have a better experience… And if the breastfeeding mother feels best not to be covered, then again it would be her choice, not society’s choice.
After all, of all the arguing mentioned in the comments read, none can disagree that ultimately we all want a happy healthy baby.

Mom of 3
I cannot believe that we have not gotten past this garbage.

I have breastfed two children and I am expecting my third in a few weeks, who I will also breastfeed. I am not shy, and never have been shy, about when and where I feed my babies. I have always fed them whenever they needed it, regardless of where we are.

That being said, I have always covered my babies during the latching process because it can sometimes be difficult. However, once they were latched on, I removed the blanket because they get too hot and do not feed properly. Between the shirt, the nursing bra and the baby's latch, you hardly see anything!!! I see more breast in a bikini than I do when I breastfeed.

And as for the person who mentioned covering up at home while having guests...puh-lease!! It is MY home...they are MY guests. I will feed MY child in MY home when I want to. It is MY space and therefore I won't cover up for anyone...I don't care who is there! If they don't like it, then they are more than free to walk out my front door.

Ladies...please...breastfeed your babies when and where you want to...and do so in a manner which makes you and your baby comfortable. Other's comfort is their own responsibility.

Travis
Before I begin, I'm obviously not a breastfeeding mother.

Is this what we've become? We are so intolerant and inconsiderate that we can't permit one of the most basic, natural and necessary acts to occur in public?

Who is truly bothered by this? I'm talking about loosing sleep over it. Not me.

I dare some of you to sit under a blanket in the hot sun for 15 minutes and see how comfortable you are, especially when the blanket occasionally brushes up against your face while you're eating.

If it bothers people so much, stop looking! Sheish!

What a bunch of prudes!

It's not always possible to cover up. The heat, the baby, and even the attire or lack of coverings can prevent coverage. So are we to deny the baby a feeding because it bothers a small handful of prudes?

It's no different than me watching adults eat in public - it's utter disgusting watching people shovel food into their mouths like swine at a trough. And could you please close your mouth while eating?

But I don't loose sleep over it. I simply turn my head, and find something else to do.

Of all the things to complain about. This world is the epitome of FAIL.

S
Last time I checked, when you're breastfeeding, the baby is covering most of the "exposed" breast.

Come on. I breast fed my daughter where ever we where whenever she needed to. I'm going to do exactly the same thing with my next children. Even in the instances where I did cover up, she would take the blanket off over and over again making it pointless. It drew more attention than just getting on with it. Have you ever tried eating your meals with a blanket over your head? Go on, Try it.

If you don't like it, don't gawk or point. You're only embarrassing yourself.

Travis
JC - you are so right, it's legal in Ontario to go topless, so long as it isn't for a sexual nature.

Why do women have to fight for everything?

There's no law against it, so if you don't like it, go find a province/country that shares in your dim moral values.

Emmalina
I find some of the comments here beyond bizarre and can only assume that they are made by people who have never faced the realities of raising a child. When a baby or child is hungry you feed them. Breastfeeding is the best choice so will have to happen in public some times. If others are offended it is their job to get over it and avert their eyes. The only way you see a woman's breast when she is nursing is by really looking - hard. Glance away and get on with your day.

Would you expect someone of another race to cover up to avoid 'offending' others? Should couples never kiss or hug in public in case it offends someone else? I am not going to smother my child so that another person can avoid the realities of raising a baby.

Honestly, are we really not past this kind of nonsense?

amber
Well put Mr D and Chantal!

breast feeding is natural and I find it disturbing that some people consider it dirty?!! or sexual? This is a learned attitude. If we tell children it is a dirty and offensive act they will grow up to believe this. Children don't get offended by bf! Why would they? What kind of a negative impact has bf had for them?How could a child possibly be offended by bf? They aren't sexually active or even aware of another purpose for the breast. besides it's not about sex. If you don't like it. Don't look! .

Natasha (Ottawa)
I have been breastfeeding for the last six years (three children) and I was only ever asked to cover up once. Let me just say that being asked to cover up was devasting and is reprehensible. For a moment I felt shame, then I was angry. It is my child's right to be fed, my choice is the breast, which is also supported by legislation in Canada and many international organizations.

Anyone who suggests that a breastfeeding mother should "use a cover" is imposing their beliefs on another human being, which, frankly, is wrong. It is NOT a question about respecting others; it is exclusively about the mother doing what is right for her and her child, everyone else needs to mind their own business.

amber
don;
" For sure, breastfeed, but use some discretion and class!!"

wow.. The mother is doing her job.If anything, that should be respected and valued.
I personally wouldn't choose to fully expose myself if I was nursing in public and I don't believe that this is the intention of any mother. Plus, sometimes babies don't always cooperate and stay on the breast. ...Woops, there's a nipple.... Now the mother is classless? very sad.
nursing mothers diserve more respect!

Let's just step back for a second. Breast feeding....who is this about? The child. Those of you who don't like it. It is not about you.

Kanata Ken
It's a friggin' tit. Get over it you prudes.

Mike
to Female and all others that feels like her.

If the mother does actually plan there outings arround the feeding, then she will never leave home. I agree to be open minded and the mother to breast feed the child in public as long as common sence is used as well. the child cannot be deprived from eating either fromt he breast or the bottle. Most people in north america should grow up and be more mature about these things.

Michelle
A couple thoughts
About covers - they work well for some people. But for me, whenever I tried to cover up, the baby would rip the blanket off,and start twisting around, thereby exposing my breast to the whole world. If I just fed her quietly with no cover, there was nearly nothing to see. In fact, people would come up and assume she was napping. Few people realized she was breastfeeding. I show less skin than a regular teenager going to high school!
About pools - my 3-yr-old took lessons at the ORC/BMRC starting when my baby was 8 weeks old. I breastfed the baby poolside nearly every week, with nothing but encouragement and joy from the staff and patrons.

Phil
The ear piercing cries of a baby requiring due nourishment. I'm wondering how in the strict dress code location on Earth can tolerate unhealthy deafening noise like that!

I guess the social milk [the law] is perceived best served cold! The roots of terror might be closer than we think!

Baker, Ottawa
Wow. What a commotion.

The answer is simple, and Cindy said it best. Consideration of others. On BOTH sides.

Gaëts
If you go overseas to under-developed countries, you will see mothers breastfeeding their children in all sorts of situations and it is considered normal [some mothers are not even wearing clothes]. Only in democratic and sophisticated countries such as Canada is breastfeeding infants in public deemed to be impolite and an offence. I think it should be left up to the personal choice of a mother as to where she wants to breastfeed her child.

Jeremy
I believe that with anything in life, a little tact should be considered. A woman saying she can breastfeed anywhere i should hope would not breastfeed around a bunch of punks, regardless of place right?

Regardless of those who say that breasts are not SUPPOSED to be taken in sexual context, rreality dictates they are, and society has not done anything but promote that perception. Those looking to breastfeed for the sake of rights are begging for both publicity and trouble.

Last time I saw women fight for rights, they won passing a law to walk topless in the street, and I haven't seen a single pair if breasts exposed in public since that bill was passed.

If there should be no tact in place, breastfeed where ever you want, then by the same rights, why bother tucking them away after? Obviously even women consider their breast sexual.

I don't have a problem with public breastfeeding, but I don't see a problem with anyone questionig if it's tactful at the same time.

Everyone needs to relax.

Rebecca
I think people are going overboard with this..I BF my children but didn't do it in public. I understand some people feel comfortable doing it anywhere since it is natural but since some people do get offended, why not just cover up. Why are these people purposely trying to start a fight? and about the "protest": I've seen kids pee, poop and vomit in or around the pool, and even know many people that have gotten warts there.. is it really a great place to feed your child?

Renee
Hey Wendy, you asked: You go to zoos and see the apes and monkeys feeding their babies right out in the open..what is the difference..

Well I would think that animals don't have the capacity of judgment. Sure women should be allowed to breastfeed in public places. However, there is a concept called respect towards others (concept also lost on animals)that should, perhaps in conjunction with good judgment, tell a woman not to not breastfeed, but how much discretion she should use. Yes it is natural, but natural does not mean carte blanche to loose perspective of others people's feelings.

Deano
Yes, breastfeeding is natural and many restrictions on doing it in public have gone away. Some should remain. Enough people are uncomfortable with it. For some men, possibly many men, breasts are quite highly sexualized. Please believe me on this. Isn't that enough reason for some discretion to apply?

"Nobody has a problem in Africa with it" -- Rape and murder are huge problems in many parts of Africa. In some places there, rape is very common. That doesn't mean that whatever goes on there is automatically OK here. Let's keep some perspective, please.

HF
I think that what people fail to realize is that most times, if not all the time, you can't see anything when you are bf. In fact, I bf my son and most people hardly knew I was doing it. I refused to put a blanket over his head as it is hot. Also the little smocks they make, are horrible, they go around your neck, get caught and are just the same as having a blanket over your head.
Most women who bf are not hauling out their boob and letting it dangle for all the world to see..they do it discreetly and quietly. They are not taking out a billboard that says "HEY, look at me, I am breastfeeding".

Helene
There is a limit of when and where you should breast feed your baby. Plan your outings accordingly. Use a receiving blanket to cover up. I am all for breast feeding but we don't need to see your breast in public. Use your comon sense.

twinmom
It's too bad this had to turn into a big deal because it just gets the breastfeeding zealots all worked up. I have no problem with breastfeeding, as long as it's done discreetly. It is possible to breastfeed with class. I breastfed my twins for a short time, but I never had the need or desire to do it in public. I preferred to find a nice, quiet comfortable place. For the record, I suspect that most mothers are discreet and don't want people looking at them. But of course there are always a few that crave the attention. People have to realize that not everyone is comfortable with it and you can't force people to accept it by saying "anywhere. any time" period". That just makes people angry. Breast milk is a bodily fluid, so I wouldn't want to see it done in the middle of a restaurant or in a pool. That's just gross for the other people around them.

Viv
There's nothing wrong with nursing, I did it myself....I covered up out of respect for others, Ottawa had nothing to apologize for.

Rich Pasco
The lifeguard was off base and owes Ms. Dezort an apology.

The Ontario Human Rights commission's web site states that a woman's right to breastfeed anywhere, anytime is protected by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. It says, "You have rights as a nursing mother. For example, you have the right to breastfeed a child in a public area. No one should prevent you from nursing your child simply because you are in a public area. They should not ask you to 'cover up', disturb you, or ask you to move to another area that is more 'discreet'." [Unfortunately CTV prohibits including the link.]

C_Jane_tweet
1. Mammary Gland
2. Cover them all... hide the lambs suckling at the experimental farm. Raise taxes and subsidize farmers so that tall barriers can be erected to prevent anyone from seeing a baby calf feeding off a cow or a foal being fed by a mare.
3. So a mammary gland is offensive, but it acceptable to play peek-a-boo with them with bikini tops and provocative "club wear", but it is offensive to feed our babes in public?
Please forgive my sarcasm, but this is truly ridiculous. A family of four died in a sink hole. We are flooding the Gulf of Mexico with oil due to our complacency and planning to allow deeper drilling off the coast of Nfld and we are worried about the exposure of a mammary gland - not in an NFL half time show, not in a seedy peep show, but in a truly natural motherhood responsbilibilty to nourish our young? Good grief, don't look if it that offensive, just as I will try not to look at all those guys out there with the waistbands of their pants barely secured below their buttocks exposing their undies? No, that isn't offensive right?

kk
I keep seeing references to having "class" while breastfeeding. What a load of BS. What on earth does this so-called class have to do with anything? Considering the things I see when I am out in public, breastfeeding is positively the least offensive. Consider: young men showing off their butt cracks with their drooping pants that went out of style years ago & women who wear bikini tops that only cover their nipples (why bother with a top at all?). We live in an era where self expression is taken for granted & 12 yr old girls dress like hookers. I am amazed that there are still people who are offended by breasts! BTW... when a baby is breast feeding you don't even see a nipple ergo no more exposure than that bikini top I mentioned. Come out of the 50's folks!
As for a sit-in... what would that accomplish since there is already a law in place to support breastfeeding in public. It would only serve to annoy people who've already got their heads up their fundaments.