Indigenous advocates reclaim breastfeeding as a cultural practice

Indigenous lactation advocates in Minnesota are helping Native parents navigate breastfeeding through culturally informed education and support. According to MPR News, lactation consultant Camila Valenzuela-Panza offers free home visits and classes at the Ain Dah Yung Center in St. Paul. Valenzuela-Panza, who is of Mapuche ancestry, said access to care is limited because insurance reimbursement for lactation consultants is low and outpatient appointments are difficult to schedule.

Valenzuela-Panza is part of the Indigenous Breastfeeding Coalition of Minnesota, led by Shashana Skippingday and Pearl Walker-Swaney. The coalition promotes breastfeeding as a traditional practice and provides resources for new parents. The Minnesota Department of Health reports that breastfeeding rates among Indigenous parents are among the lowest in the state, due in part to lack of support and access to prenatal education.