'Nurse-In' Held At Montco YMCA After Breastfeeding Controversy

LIMERICK, PA -- Several mothers staged a "nurse-in" at the Spring Valley YMCA in Limerick on Wednesday to show support for breastfeeding.

The event was organized by Adrienne Harris, who was inspired by the recent incident involving another mother and local woman, Kate Haslam. Haslam was breastfeeding recently while sitting on a balance beam at her 19-month-old son's toddler gym class when employees said she had to go elsewhere because it was making "men in the room uncomfortable."

Around 20 mothers showed up at the nurse-in on Wednesday, including Harris and even lactation professionals.

Harris created a Facebook group for the event and urged mothers to unite in solidarity behind Haslam.

Due to recent events I am going to go to the lobby (in case you arent a member of the Y you can join me there) of the Spring Valley YMCA and nurse my babe uncovered. Wonder how they will react with all the news coverage on their illegal actions towards a breastfeeding mother? Then not even publicly apologizing!!! Come join me!!!! Even if you arent currently nursing!!! Lets fill the lobby!!!!

The story has created a ripple effect across social media: hundreds of people have liked Haslam's original post. And dozens more have taken to the Spring Valley YMCA page to log their complaints. Most posts express anger and disbelief over the YMCA's claims that it offers a family friendly environment, given what happened to Haslam while she tried to breastfeed.

The YMCA has apologized, but offers a different version of events.

"The Spring Valley YMCA understands and fully supports that a woman has the right to breastfeed her baby wherever she is most comfortable," said Shaun Elliot, President and CEO, in a statement.

Elliot went on to say that the employees only suggested Haslam move to the hallway, so that program participants could used the balance beam she was sitting on.

"It was not our intent to suggest relocating to another room for breastfeeding was more appropriate, we were just trying to accommodate other participants as well. We appreciate the community making us aware of the situation, which we have reviewed and talked to our staff about to ensure proper handling in the future. We will continue to work with our staff and provide training and coaching on this important subject," Elliot added.

Image of Kate Haslam and her son courtesy of Kate Haslam.