The View causes huge stink about breastfeeding

CBB Reader Shannon emailed me the following regarding a large protest outside of the ABC Studios in NYC on Monday:

Breastfeeding moms protested several things, including Elisabeth announcing her baby is now drinking formula (which brought applause) and Barbara Walters recent comment about being uncomfortable with a woman breastfeeding openly next to her on a plane. Also, misinformation about breastfeeding has been spread on the view; Star has said she would never breastfeed and that it is "gross." Barbara said "formula is just as good as breastmilk these days" and there have been comments made about extended nursing. When actress Vanessa Williams said she breastfed her son for 2 years, Star was shocked and said "TWO YEARS? That’s old enough for a happy meal" not to mention she has said "don’t they make Similac?" every time breastfeeding is mentioned.

Here are related links:

• http://www.wvec.com/news/topstories/stories/wvec_local_060605_breastfeed_protest.2e9c7017e.html which has Barbara Walters statement, and a picture, video, and a link to a lengthy discussion forum
• http://www.friendsofthebirthcenter.org/
• pictures:  Yahoo! Photos – adriannewe’s Photos – Nurse-In at The View 6/6/05

• huge discussion about it: http://www.mothering.com/discussions/forumdisplay.php?f=25

I’m not even going to open this post up for comments because I know this is going to be a big old can of worms.