Michelle Obama on the importance of breastfeeding

From Michelle Obama's speech at the NAACP National Convention, July 12:

And finally, it’s one thing we can think about, is working to make sure that our kids get a healthy start from the beginning, by promoting breastfeeding in our communities. (Applause.) One thing we do know is that babies that are breastfed are less likely to be obese as children, but 40 percent of African American babies are never breastfed at all, not even during the first weeks of their lives.

And we know this isn’t possible or practical for some moms, but we’ve got a WIC program that’s providing new support to low-income moms who want to try so that they get the support they need.

And under the new health care legislation, businesses will now have to accommodate mothers who want to continue breastfeeding once they get back to work. (Applause.) Now, the men, you may not understand how important that is. (Laughter.) But trust me, it’s important to have a place to go.

I also heard recently that Michelle Obama's office has been talking to national breastfeeding organizations about incorporating breastfeeding support/advocacy into their "Let's Move" campaign. So exciting that she is finally talking about this!

Via Blacktating.