Everyone has an opinion when it comes to breastfeeding, but the conversation gets even more heated when a certain image challenges social norms. A photographer from Arizona named Jade Beall shared a perplexing photo of herself breastfeeding her 3-year-old son, Sequoia. That's right. He's old enough to walk, run and form clear sentences. As an expecting mom, I found the image endearing and beautiful. However, there are plenty of people who were left outraged by Beall's photo. Check it out for yourself.
Read more ¿Qué más?: 10 Things about breastfeeding (almost) no one will tell you
Beall found a sense of empowerment when breastfeeding her boy and decided to extend her practice. Typically, pediatricians recommend breastfeeding up until 6 months to a year of age. I find that breastfeeding is an individual choice and moms shouldn't be judged over their decision.
"My body changed so much when I was pregnant…I wanted to show what had not been seen or talked about," she told Yahoo Parenting. Beall was shown support from many women, but others had a hard time with the polarizing photo.
Beall wrote a response on Facebook to all of the people blasting her for her choice:
I do want to address one thing a lot of people are getting mad at me about: I do not nurse my 3.5 year old for my own needs/comfort. Breastfeeding has never been butterflies and fairies for me. It has always been uncomfortable and I consider it a privileged job that I happily commit to for my son. My son is as independent and strong willed as they come. I have no doubt he will stop when he is ready.
I respect Beall for getting the conversation started. She's starting a movement and if it means that it will soften society's judgmental view on women who breastfeed, then all of this is for a great cause.
Images via Jade Beall/Facebook
