To help increase breastfeeding rates among U.S.-born African American women, Ramsey County first needed to understand the core problems preventing the community from breastfeeding, as well as identifying assets the community has to leverage. To accomplish this, we embarked on wide-scale outreach efforts and held listening sessions with parents and guardians of children of all ages, as well with grandparents and community members who had an interest in or experience with this topic. By putting the community in the driver’s seat, we amplified their knowledge, allowing us to face the challenges associated with breastfeeding head-on.
In 2023, another group of passionate and committed young African-American men shared their insight during Ramsey County Equity Labs. Their stories and experiences were brought to life through powerful illustrations that were displayed on posters, postcards and t-shirts. These items were distributed throughout the community. These men are committed to shaping the narrative, through advocating and supporting breastfeeding to build stronger communities and families.