World Breastfeeding Week wrapped up last week, but it was immediately followed by the kick off of Indigenous Milk Medicine Week (IMMW). It is observed each August 8-14 as another spotlighted week during National Breastfeeding Month. Indigenous cultures have long recognized the healing properties of breast milk. Indigenous Milk Medicine honors this tradition and emphasizes the importance of cultural sensitivity in breastfeeding support.
Unapologetically Indigenous: Love, Landback, and Liberation
This year’s theme, “Unapologetically Indegenous: Love, Landback, and Liberation,” will affirm Milk Medicine as living knowledge that nourishes sovereignty and love. They aim to celebrate the strength, connection, and healing that Milk Medicine brings through community care. “From our Ancestors to future generations, Milk Medicine is a vital thread that holds us together,” their website states.
- Love is the core of the Indigenous Milk Medicine Collective does as deep kinship is what binds communities and families.
- Landback represents the reclamation of traditions and practices that have sustained the community for generations.
- Liberation stands for the reclamation of the right to practice traditional birthkeeping and lactation.
Each day of IMMW features a theme, complete with “what to wear” and a directive for individuals to participate or show their support online. The week kicked off with a livestream on Aug. 7. You can catch the replay, featuring artist Soni Lopez-Chavez (Chichimeca), on their Facebook page along with Q&A sessions and other featured live streams. The event’s virtual 5K kicked off Aug. 9 and is open to participation through Aug. 14.
Virtual Conference & Featured Artist
On Monday, Aug. 11 the Indigenous Milk Medicine Conference began. The virtual event runs through Aug. 14 and offers a unique opportunity for participants to learn from knowledge sharing educational sessions.. The sessions include topics such as, “Unmasking Neurodiversity in Indigenous Lactation and Early Postpartum”, “First Foods, Fluid Identities: Parenting and Feeding 2-Spirit Futures”, and more. Each day offers valuable sessions with powerful speakers.
Part of IMMW is to feature an Indigenous artist that will uplift and highlight Indigenous talent while bringing to life that year’s theme. The 2025 featured artist is Soni Lopez-Chavez. She is a Chichimeca artist whose powerful work centers Indigenous identity, healing, and liberation.
Supporting All Moms During National Breastfeeding Month
Hygeia Health is committed to supporting all mothers, including Indigenous moms, on their breastfeeding journey. Our breast pumps are designed with comfort and efficiency in mind, but we know that a great pump is just one piece of the puzzle. We believe in providing comprehensive support, including education, resources, and community. Hygeia offers moms an opportunity to receive a high quality pump 100% covered by their insurance. Find out if you qualify here.
Let’s continue to celebrate the power of breast milk in the month of August, and advocate for policies that support Indigenous Milk Medicine families year-round.