On August 4, 2012, you have a chance to be part of history. That’s when the first-ever Great Nurse-In will be held on the West Lawn of the Capitol Building. Taking place in the midst of World Breastfeeding Week, the event welcomes everyone — nursers, non-nursers, men, women, children — for a day full of fun, learning, and a chance to support the right to breastfeed in public.
The Great Nurse-In is the brainchild of Rachel Papantonakis, a local mom of two, who was fed up with hearing stories of mothers being condemned for breastfeeding in public. Even though she hadn’t had a negative experience herself, she decided to take action. It began with a message on our neighborhood list serv stating her goal to plan a gathering on the National Mall and within just months it’s grown to a full-fledged event that is expected to draw thousands from around the country and even overseas.
The aim of the event is to normalize nursing for today’s society and future generations by promoting public breastfeeding. And Rachel stresses that the Great Nurse-In isn’t just for breastfeeding moms, it’s for everyone. It will feature events and activities that support and empower nursing mothers, as well as educate and engage non-nursing community members. There will also be festivities for children, including performances by local musicians brought to you by the Boogie Babes.
The Great Nurse-In will take place from 9am – 4pm on August 4, but the program line-up is still TBD. You can start gearing up on apparel designed especially for the event by Mam Pear Designs. You can also follow the Great Nurse-In on Facebook for regular updates.
For more information about the Great Nurse-In, including visitor information for out-of-towners and how to get involved, visit the website.
