With debate continuing to rage around a woman's right to breastfeed in public, it's unlikely opposing sides will ever reach a resolution on the matter, especially if recent remarks made by a US politician are anything to go by.
In an incredibly crude assessment of a woman's right to feed her child in public, New Hampshire State Rep, Josh Moore, suggested that if a woman is willing to bare her breast in public, she shouldn't be surprised if a man tries to 'grab' her nipple.
Moore's shocking remarks come as the state of New Hampshire debate over the proposed introduction of a new bill which states that a woman could be charged with a misdemeanour if she “purposely exposes the areola or nipple of her breast or breasts in a public place and in the presence of another person with reckless disregard for whether a reasonable person would be offended or alarmed by such act."
The bill, which is supported by the Republican party only, has sparked outrage among many, with protesters taking to social media to defend a woman's right to feed her child in a public space.
Responding to online criticism of the bill from New Hampshire State Rep. Amanda Bouldin, Mr. Moore replied: "Who doesn’t support a mothers right to feed? Don’t give me the liberal talking points Amanda."
In a defence which is likely to offend many, Mr. Moore continued: "If it’s a woman’s natural inclination to pull her nipple out in public and you support that, than you should have no problem with a man's [inclination] to stare at it and grab it. After all, it’s ALL relative and natural, right?"
Supporting his colleague's stance, State Rep Al Baldsaro weighed in on the discussion, saying: "Amanda, No disrespect, but your nipple would be the last one I would want to see."
Appearing to suggest breastfeeding is comparable to some form of perversion, he continued; "You want to turn our family beach’s into a pervert show. Liberterians want a nude beach, put your money together and buy one, if you want to expose you kids to nudity, go for it. Some of us liberty minded Reps do believe in family values."
Unsurprisingly, the politicians' remarks have been slammed by innumerable people on social media, with calls for Amanda to receive a public apology - something which Ms. Bouldin insists is not necessary.
Dismissing the need for an apology, she simply tweeted: "To those who've been demanding an apology of Rep. Moore@thekingomman or Rep. @Al_Baldsaro – I don't need that. Just kill the bill."
What are your thoughts?
