Infant Feeding: returning to work. The demonstration
Infant Feeding: returning to work. The demonstration
The interlocking of oppression felt by Black women trying to pump in the workplace can be overwhelming. Battling against sexism, racism, and gender-based discrimination can feel like too much to combat in any circumstance, especially during a transitional time like a return to work after the birth or adoption of a child.
Hey, I'm really glad you reached out. It sounds like you're dealing with a tough situation at work, and I'm here to help you through it. Can you tell me more about what's been happening?
Thank you for listening. My workplace isn't providing a suitable space for pumping, and my colleagues are making it really uncomfortable for me. I don't know what to do.
I'm sorry to hear that you're going through this. You have the right to a suitable pumping space at work, and your colleagues should be respectful. One step we can take is to talk to your HR department about your concerns. I can help you draft a formal complaint if you're comfortable with that.
To be honest I’m really not. I’ve already been passed over for promotion due to taking leave, and as one of the only Black women in my office I feel like drawing negative attention would be unwise at this point. I do want to be able to pump at work but I’m just so torn.
I'm really sorry you’re having to navigate this. It's definitely not fair and you shouldn't have to deal with this. You have every right to a supportive workplace. I totally get that you don't want to draw too much attention. Let's talk about how we can address these issues in a way that feels right for you. What would be the best outcome in your mind?
Thanks. I just want a private space to pump, and I want to be treated fairly. I don't want special treatment; I just want to be given a fair chance to make breastfeeding and working possible.
Absolutely, that's completely reasonable. You're not asking for anything more than what you deserve. Having a private space to pump is a basic need, and no one wants to be made to feel less than for parenting.
Exactly, so I’m not sure where to go from here.
I understand going to HR can feel intimidating, how would you feel about consulting with an outside legal organization who can help you understand your rights and find a way to advocate for them that reduces retaliation as much as possible? This service would be free and confidential.
That sounds great, I’d at least like to understand my rights a bit more.
Perfect. In the meantime let's discuss alternative options for preserving your breastfeeding relationship while this is worked out. We can get creative about when, how, and where you pump if that is important to you.
I’d really appreciate that, thank you.
Things to consider.
Mirror your client’s language whenever appropriate. Let them vocalize what the problem is without jumping in to decide for yourself.
Always validate before problem solving, and determine what their optimal outcome is instead of deciding for them. It can be in the nature of providers to jump right to the solution, but often, taking a step back to really see and hear the client can lead to a better outcome.
When is a time you’ve gotten ahead of yourself with a client, offering solutions before it was prudent to do so? What was the outcome?
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