Londonderry Mural Aims to Combat Breastfeeding Stigma

A group in Londonderry expresses optimism that a recently installed mural in the city centre will contribute to addressing the stigmas associated with breastfeeding. Data from the Public Health Agency indicates that the number of mothers in Derry and Strabane who opt to breastfeed is lower than in other parts of Northern Ireland. The mural, situated on Great James Street, was commissioned by the North West Breastfeeding and Perinatal Support (BAPS) organisation. Sinead O’Kane, the project coordinator, stated, “We want to encourage the conversation. We hope that it will bring change.” The artwork, produced by the artist collective Peaball, is displayed on a gable wall of the Pram Centre. It portrays a mother breastfeeding her infant, with a section of the image intentionally pixelated. Sinead explained the reasoning behind this choice, saying, “We wanted it to be censored because we wanted it to be like what it’s like to feed here in Derry because as mums we do feel censored when it comes to feeding.” A wreath encircles the mother and baby, which Sinead clarified symbolizes the comprehensive support network essential throughout the breastfeeding experience. She further noted, “The black and white mum and baby represents how it truly feels to breastfeed, their love and their connections.” Sinead mentioned that the mural drew inspiration from a comparable initiative in Greenock, Scotland, where a 5% rise in breastfeeding mothers in that locality was observed. She articulated, “We want people who want to breastfeed to know there is a community here and ready to embrace, support and protect them while they learn this new skill.” The project commenced more than a year prior when Sinead first discussed the concept of a mural with Peaball artist, Donal O’Doherty. Subsequently, the group conducted workshops to refine the mural’s design. Donal stated, “We looked at different types of street art, we looked at different types of imagery and how that’s portrayed by the general public.” He added, “It gives them an idea of what direction they want to go in and styling.” Donal expressed satisfaction with the pixelated component, believing it effectively initiates dialogue. Numerous mothers from the city were present at the mural’s unveiling on Friday. Denise McMahon attended the event with her infant, Robin. She remarked, “To know that a community is out and that there are other mums that are there to offer support, and people that you can meet up with if you’re not feeling comfortable in the early days and just building confidence is great.” Cliodhna Dunne, a mother of two, emphasized the significance of illustrating the value of breastfeeding and the connection between a mother and her child. Concurrently, Charmaine Kelly Aelin voiced her expectation that the mural would “break some stigma” concerning breastfeeding. She commented, “I hope it helps mums feel more comfortable feeding in public. I know myself that was one of my own challenges to overcome.”