A Champion for Black Mothers in Metro Detroit
Breastfeeding can feel overwhelming for new mothers. Many face confusion, stigma, and limited support. In Metro Detroit, Black mothers have a strong advocate in Tameka Jackson-Dyer, also known as “The Crazy Milk Lady.”
Jackson-Dyer is reshaping how families experience lactation support. Instead of relying only on hospitals, she builds community-based programs that respect culture, history, and dignity. Her work is restoring a sense of power to mothers who are often left out of the conversation.
Building Community-Based Breastfeeding Support
Jackson-Dyer owns Crazymilklady Lactation Support Services and co-founded Southeast Michigan IBCLCs of Color (SEMI). The group is filling gaps in care both during hospital stays and after mothers return home.
According to Jackson-Dyer, SEMI was formed “to provide support and mentorship for our colleagues and ensure culturally congruent care for the families in our community.” Many members are also doulas with hospital experience, which gives them first-hand insight into healthcare disparities.
Partnerships Bringing Equity to Families
SEMI’s efforts are supported by the Warm Referral Network (WRN). This partnership connects hospitals, doulas, and community leaders to match families with vital resources like lactation support. The goal is simple: make care more equitable and accessible.
Beyond hospitals, Jackson-Dyer is using technology to expand peer-to-peer support. Facebook groups such as “Breastfeeding Support Group for Black Moms” and “Black Women Do Breastfeed” have become safe spaces for connection. Still, she warns that privacy can be a challenge when sharing personal stories online.
Breaking Stigma and Reclaiming History
One of Jackson-Dyer’s most passionate goals is breaking the stigma around breastfeeding in Black communities. She believes the issue has been framed incorrectly as a lifestyle choice instead of a public health matter.
“Knowing the history and reclaiming our Birthright of being able to provide the perfect first food to our babies rather than being forced to provide it to others is something that many of us in the field have been working on for a long time,” she said.
Events like Black Breastfeeding Week and public photo shoots have helped normalize breastfeeding. Her message is clear: “Babies got to eat, anytime, anyplace.”
Fighting Economic Barriers to Breastfeeding
Many Black mothers cannot afford professional lactation services. To address this, SEMI uses grants and creative funding models. Jackson-Dyer also points to studies showing that basic minimum income improves breastfeeding success by allowing longer maternity leave.
However, she notes these programs are rare. Until they are more widespread, grants remain a critical lifeline for mothers who need support but cannot pay for it.
Advocacy and the Future of Breastfeeding Support
Jackson-Dyer also works with local groups such as the Michigan Breastfeeding Network (MIBFN). Together, they recognize hospitals and workplaces that create breastfeeding-friendly environments. One success story is the lactation rooms at Detroit Metro Airport, created through grassroots advocacy.
For her, real progress means equity in prenatal education and inpatient care. She argues that success should not be measured only in breastfeeding rates, but also in the mental, emotional, and financial well-being of Black mothers.
“When Black women can reclaim our Birthright as the sustainers of life, it will be a win for society as a whole,” she said.
