La Leche League International Inc

La Leche League International (LLLI) is a non-governmental, non-profit organization dedicated to promoting breastfeeding through mother-to-mother support, education, and advocacy. The organization aims to encourage, inform, and educate families about the benefits and practices of breastfeeding, highlighting its importance in the healthy development of both mothers and babies.

History

La Leche League was founded in 1956 by Marian Thompson, Mary White, Mary Ann Cahill, Edwina Froehlich, Mary Ann Kerwin, Viola Lennon, and Betty Wagner in Franklin Park, Illinois, USA. The organization grew rapidly, with the first international group forming in Canada in 1960. By 1964, it had expanded to become La Leche League International, Inc. (LLLI), with groups in multiple countries including Canada, Mexico, and New Zealand.

Mission

LLLI supports breastfeeding as an essential element in the nurturing relationship between mother and child. The organization emphasizes mother-to-mother support and the promotion of breastfeeding as a natural and beneficial practice. This support extends to all breastfeeding families, regardless of their background or family structure.

Activities

La Leche League International provides meetings and discussions led by trained Leaders who facilitate support among breastfeeding parents. These meetings often take place in public venues like hospitals and parenting centers. LLLI also offers educational resources, including books like "The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding," which is widely regarded as a comprehensive guide to breastfeeding.

Recognition and Partnerships

In 1981, La Leche League International was granted consultative status with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). This recognition underscored the organization's role as a global advocate for breastfeeding. LLLI has also contributed to the development of lactation consultant certification through its involvement with the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners.

Diversity and Inclusion Efforts

Recently, La Leche League International has focused on enhancing diversity and inclusion within its ranks, striving to make breastfeeding support accessible to all families regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender identity, or socio-economic status. However, in November 2024, a founding member resigned over disagreements regarding inclusivity policies.

Global Presence

Today, La Leche League International operates in approximately 89 countries worldwide, offering support and resources to families in a variety of cultural and social contexts. The organization remains committed to the World Health Organization's International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes, advocating for ethical practices in the infant feeding industry.