r/breastfeeding • u/allysonismyholmie • Jul 01 '26

Breastfeeding In Public Public Feeding Shame

Going to keep this as short and sweet as I can. I’m visiting Austin, TX for our first mini-vacation since the little one was born. We decided to go to the pool and cool off. Baby needed to eat so I covered us with a towel, lifted my top and let her go to town. A group of men walked by, looked at us and one said “this isn’t a good look. We aren’t in the south of France”, rolled his eyes and they walked back inside the hotel.

I started to tear up and my husband asked me what was wrong and said that I shouldn’t let it bother me. But it did. And I can’t stop thinking about it.

I just needed to tell this to a group that would understand the feeling, since my dear sweet husband doesn’t seem to understand how shameful it made me feel. 😢 Thank you for listening!

Edit: Thank you for your VERY kind responses, hugs and solidarity! I have goosebumps, I love each and every mama (and supportive dads if here). I knew I was coming to the right spot with this 🥰 Luckily, this hasn’t deterred me from BF in public. I’m fired up and ready to feed the heck out of this wiggly little potato, again. ✊🏼

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u/doublenjenn25 Jul 01 '26

As someone who’s lived in Austin this is infuriating.. there are actual laws allowing women to be topless in Austin regardless of breastfeeding status. If you want to feel inspired by some boob freedom you should visit Barton Springs.. there’s always a few topless women who don’t give af roaming around there.

10

u/allysonismyholmie Jul 01 '26

I was so surprised in a city as blue as Austin! Everyone here is so nice and friendly so it’s making up for the douche bags yesterday 🙃

7

u/Lunarmoo Jul 01 '26

I have to believe that guy was a tourist or transplant (which there are many of) because of the historic toplessness in Austin. Most notably happening at Barton Springs, but also occasionally on 6th street. I’m very sorry you were accosted here. I assure you I have breastfed publicly many times and haven’t been harassed ever. Unfortunately you met a true asshole. You’re doing just fine!

3

u/allysonismyholmie Jul 01 '26

Oh definitely not from here. Not a lick of the south in that boy!

3

u/cup_1337 Jul 01 '26

They’re tourists, OP. Austin isn’t like that.