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Contra Costa Board proclaims August as National Breastfeeding Month, cites disparities
Summary
Contra Costa County supervisors proclaimed August 2025 National Breastfeeding Month and highlighted local programs (WIC, Black Infant Health) and gaps in exclusive breastfeeding rates and racial disparities, according to public health director Sophie McCurray.
The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors on Aug. 5 proclaimed August 2025 as National Breastfeeding Month and recognized Black Breastfeeding Week later this month.
Sophie McCurray, who identified herself as Contra Costa County public health director, told the board that breastfeeding is the best source of nutrition for most infants and cited guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics recommending exclusive breastfeeding for about the first six months. McCurray said that in the United States only about 20.5% of infants meet that exclusive-breastfeeding goal and that roughly 60% of mothers stop breastfeeding earlier than they intended. She highlighted persistent disparities by race, ethnicity and income and described local supports: Contra Costa Health’s Black Infant Health program, the county WIC program, and a baby-friendly designation at Contra Costa Regional Medical Center that reflect systemwide efforts to support breastfeeding.
Supervisor Diane Burgess thanked the presenters and noted cultural, workplace and public stigma barriers that make ongoing support necessary. The board invited the health staff forward for a photograph with supervisors to mark the proclamation.
The proclamation is symbolic recognition; no formal policy decision or new county funding was adopted at the meeting.
