Penobscot Indian Nation developed a breastfeeding project as a way to address the growing concern of diabetes and obesity within the community. This project emphasized the traditional role of breastfeeding within their community and included several components:
- Video – A video featuring interviews with community members and clinic staff was the centerpiece of the project. These interviews emphasized both the cultural importance and the health benefits of breastfeeding. The video is available at https://vimeo.com/53639153.
- Artwork – In an effort to normalize breastfeeding, a local artist created life-sized conversation pieces depicting breastfeeding mothers. This artwork was used to promote MCH activities and spark dialogue about the importance of breastfeeding in Native communities.
- Peer Counselors – Several Penobscot women attended peer lactation counselor training and developed a program to better support breastfeeding mothers.
- Grandparents – As Native grandparents have tremendous influence over the health and well-being of their grandchildren, Penobscot developed a grandparents’ curriculum that stressed the importance of breastfeeding and taught grandparents how to support a breastfeeding mother. This training was filmed and is available at http://www.usetinc.org/departments/tribal-health-program-support/educational-videos/.
Over two years’ time, Penobscot’s six month exclusive breastfeeding rate rose from 20% to 80%.
In an effort to normalize breastfeeding, a local artist created life-sized conversation pieces depicting breastfeeding mothers.
