Breastfeeding Mom’s Jury Duty Battle for Baby Feeding Rights

Experiencing the demands of exclusively breastfeeding a newborn, one understands the constant connection required round the clock. The bond between mother and baby during this phase is unparalleled, even with limited freedom.

In Alabama, Kandace Brown faced a challenge when her 3-month-old baby refused bottles and she was denied a jury duty exemption despite being the only source of food for her child.

Frustrated by the court’s decision, Brown shared her ordeal on Facebook, emphasizing how her daughter, Parker, solely relied on her for feeding.

Challenges Faced by Mother Trying to Fulfill Civic Duty

Despite efforts to seek an excusal for her civic duty, a mother, Brown, was denied by the county she resides in. Consequently, she had no choice but to bring her daughter, Parker, to court.

Unpleasant Experience in Court

Expressing her dismay on social media, Brown recounted a distressing incident where the judge at the court compelled mothers present to make arrangements for their children. The judge even went as far as threatening involvement of the Department of Human Resources.

Temporary Excusal and Return Requirement

Although Brown was eventually excused for the day, she was informed that she would need to come back the next day sans Parker. When Brown insisted on having her daughter with her, a female staff member suggested that she pump breast milk for the baby.

Parental Choices Challenged

Venting her frustration, Brown resented the staff member’s suggestion, stating that she cannot pump breast milk for her child as the baby does not take a bottle. She emphasized her right to make decisions regarding her child’s feeding.

A Mother’s Initiative

After a negative experience with the justice system in Alabama, Brown was motivated to advocate for changes in the state’s jury duty exemption policies. With support from her community, she successfully lobbied for an administrative order from the Alabama Supreme Court excusing breastfeeding individuals from jury duty, as reported by KFYR-TV.

The state legislators are now considering proposing a bill on this issue during the upcoming legislative session.

Brown shared her thoughts on the victory with Parents.

Reflecting on the response to her Facebook post, Brown expressed surprise, as she is not heavily active on social media and did not expect such widespread attention.

Despite the unexpected attention, Brown was not shocked by the passionate support from fellow mothers, emphasizing their dedication to their children.

Brown, a mother of five who has breastfed all her children, was disheartened by the lack of understanding from other women at the courthouse regarding her need to care for her baby. She emphasized the crucial role of breastfeeding in sustaining her child’s life.

Sharing the Experience of Exclusive Breastfeeding

One mother believes that sharing her story is crucial to educating others about the challenges and benefits of exclusive breastfeeding.

Empowering Other Parents

She encourages parents facing similar situations to speak up and stand up for themselves and their children, even if they feel overwhelmed or intimidated.

Laws for Jury Duty Exemptions Based on Breastfeeding Vary by State

According to Sharona Hoffman, a law professor at Case Western Reserve University, many states exempt or allow postponement of jury duty for breastfeeding mothers. This policy adjustment is not unique to Alabama.

If you are a breastfeeding mother and receive a jury duty summons, Hoffman suggests contacting the court to inquire about exemptions or postponements available in your state.

Hoffman notes that even in states without specific provisions regarding breastfeeding, many courts are accommodating and willing to grant postponements.

Hoffman recommends communicating with the court about your nursing schedule and availability to fulfill jury duty obligations effectively.

Support and Resources for Breastfeeding Parents Are Out There—But We Still Have a Long Way To Go

Sascha Mayer, co-founder and Chief Experience Officer at Mamava, a company known for making lactation pods, commends Brown for advocating for herself and other breastfeeding parents, as well as for promoting the normalization of their needs.

Mayer applauds the courageous act of the mom who spoke up for her requirements in a packed courthouse. The swift response from the Alabama Supreme Court in issuing an administrative order to exempt breastfeeding mothers from jury duty demonstrates that sensible policies can be implemented promptly.

Some breastfeeding parents who do not wish to be excused from jury duty may choose to bring their infants to court. Mayer highlights that the Fairness for Breastfeeding Mothers Act of 2019 mandates public federal buildings with a public restroom and an employee lactation space to offer a lactation area for visitors as well.

Improving Support for Breastfeeding

Despite progress, there is still a need for better infrastructure and support for breastfeeding. Having lactation spaces in government buildings is a positive step as it shows inclusivity for people in all stages of life and caregiving responsibilities.

Empowering Parents

By sharing stories like Brown’s, Mayer hopes that parents will be inspired to advocate for their needs and those of their children in any situation. She emphasizes the importance of speaking up as someone might not be the first to face a challenge, but they can be the first to make a difference.

Support for All Parents

Mayer stresses that breastfeeding is a basic right, applicable to all parents, including chestfeeding individuals who may not identify as mothers. She believes that parents should receive support for breastfeeding regardless of when, where, or how they choose to do it.