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Unicode Announces New Breastfeeding Emoji for 2017
On Thursday, Unicode, the organization responsible for emoji standards, announced the release of 56 new emojis for 2017, including an exciting addition: a breastfeeding emoji. This new symbol aims to represent and normalize breastfeeding in our digital conversations.
Until now, the only emoji reflecting infant feeding was the baby bottle, which has been the standard since its approval in 2010. This constraint is significant, especially considering that U.S. breastfeeding rates stand at only 49.4% at six months and 40.7% exclusive breastfeeding at three months. This means that the bottle emoji was widely used, but many mothers felt it didn’t fully capture their experiences.
The Champion Behind the Emoji
The new breastfeeding emoji was championed by Jamie Thompson, a nurse at the University of London Health Center. She emphasized the global significance of breastfeeding, which is a common practice across cultures and throughout history. The proposal for this emoji gained traction, leading to a Change.org petition and numerous social media requests.
Usage and Impact
This emoji will likely be used in relatable contexts: “Up at 3 a.m. with the baby [breastfeeding emoji],” or even to simply convey “How’s baby doing? [breastfeeding emoji].” It serves not only as a means for parents to connect but as a badge of honor for those navigating the complexities of nursing.
One concern is that the initial design of the emoji is predominantly fair-skinned, reflecting only a fraction of the global population. However, Unicode has indicated that the emoji will eventually be available in a variety of skin tones, which is vital in promoting breastfeeding among diverse communities. The imagery of breastfeeding is crucial, especially when considering that the formula industry has long used baby bottle images in marketing. This new emoji could help shift societal perceptions towards breastfeeding, much like how formula advertisements have normalized bottle-feeding.
Challenges Ahead
Jamie Thompson acknowledged that while the emoji is a positive step, it alone won’t eliminate the challenges that nursing mothers face in public spaces or address the healthcare gaps that many experience. However, it could spark important discussions about breastfeeding, leading to increased awareness and support for nursing parents.
We can expect to see this new emoji, hopefully in an array of skin tones, by summer 2017. If it helps raise awareness and foster conversation about breastfeeding, then it’s definitely a step in the right direction. For more resources on pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy.
Conclusion
In summary, the introduction of the breastfeeding emoji represents a significant milestone in normalizing breastfeeding within our digital interactions. By creating a symbol that resonates with parents, we can help foster a culture that supports and celebrates the act of nursing.