Linda Blum, author and professor of sociology and women's studies at the University of New Hampshire, speaks at the free Women's Health Lecture Series at 7 p.m. on Thurs., Nov. 4 on the Sonoma State University campus.
Blum discusses her new book "At the Breast: Ideologies of Breastfeeding and Motherhood in the Contemporary United States," a historical examination of how women from different ethnic and economic backgrounds respond to the idealized version of motherhood, which includes the notion "breast is best." By exploring how the seemingly question of whether or not to breastfeed is influenced by a number of societal factors including sexuality, economic issues, race, and the control over a women's body, Blum demonstrates how a biological function can be a complex issue.
Blum's talk traces historical development of the expectations of motherhood to the current model of idealized motherhood and the consequences of that ideal on women today. Proponents of breastfeeding are quick to point out all the advantages of breastfeeding a baby, but Blum asks the questions: How realistic is it for all working mothers to breastfeed successfully? What are the consequences on the self-confidence for mothers who fail at attempts to breastfeed?
The Women's Health Lecture Series is on Thursday evenings through December 9, 7-8:30 p.m., in Rachel Carson Hall 68. Every lecture is free and open to the public. For more information about Linda Blum's lecture or the rest of the series, contact the Womenís Resource Center at (707) 664-2845, or visit the WRC web site at www.sonoma.edu/campuslife/wrc/WHLS.html.
Parking on the SSU campus is $1.50 in all general lots. Parking by permit only in reserved lots.
For more information:
www.sonoma.edu/campuslife/wrc/WHLS.html
