Breastmilk, the movie, finally showing in Chicago

A mother breast-feeds her 3-week-old son. | John H. White~Sun-Times file photo

Ricki Lake hit an emotional and water cooler home run with the 2008 documentary “The Business of Being Born.” Last year she followed up with the production of “Breastmilk. The Movie,” a film showcasing the broad range of outcomes when it comes to moms who attempt to breastfeed their children. A local maternity store is hosting a private screening of the movie on January 10 at Belle Up maternity store on west 111th street in Chicago, near Mt. Greenwood.

Organizers say this is the first private screening of the movie in Chicagoland. (The movie originally released in August 2013.)

“I think it will be an eye opening film about breast feeding and it will at least give people pause to how they look at breastfeeding,” says Jamenda McCoy, owner of Belle Up Maternity. “A lot of women even have fear about breastfeeding because of the fear of the unknown – just like they do about giving birth. Women are really interested in learning about the positive aspects of breastfeeding and trying to find support groups.”

Local mom Kathleen McShane brought the idea to McCoy, who didn’t need much convincing. Tickets, $10 in advance, can be bought in advance here on eventbrite after searching for “Breastmilk. The Movie. and Chicago.” Proceeds benefit a A New Direction Beverly Morgan Park, an organization that fights domestic violence.

— Adrienne Samuels Gibbs