The Coalition of Oklahoma Breastfeeding Advocates (COBA) proudly announces the recipients of its Breastfeeding Champion Awards, recognizing outstanding support for breastfeeding friendly policies and public spaces. This year’s awards celebrate two distinguished legislators and an exemplary public space that have made significant contributions to advancing breastfeeding advocacy and support in Oklahoma.

As COBA marks 25 years of championing breastfeeding rights, the organization continues to drive positive change by promoting education, legislation, and workplace policies that empower families across the state. The Breastfeeding Champion Awards highlight those who have gone above and beyond in fostering environments where breastfeeding is welcomed and supported.

Senators Dossett and Hicks have been tireless advocates for breastfeeding families in Oklahoma. They successfully passed SB121 which provided workplace protection for milk expression for teachers and staff in Oklahoma public schools and actively seek out information on best practices related to breastfeeding and human milk to identify opportunities to improve outcomes and access to care.

Martin Regional Library has provided a free meeting space for the Tulsa City-County Health Department’s bimonthly Community Breastfeeding Education classes for the past 18 months. The class "Amamantando a Su Bebé” is free for anyone to attend and is presented directly in Spanish by a bilingual Certified Lactation Specialist. Martin Regional is the perfect location as it serves the community as Tulsa's Hispanic Resource Center and is located in the heart of Tulsa's Hispanic community.

“Breastfeeding is a foundational public health issue, and it takes a collective effort to ensure parents feel supported,” said Heidi Russell, COBA executive director. “As we celebrate 25 years of advocacy, COBA is honored to recognize those who have helped pave the way for a more breastfeeding-friendly Oklahoma.”

COBA invites community members, health professionals, and policymakers to join in celebrating these champions at its annual Bagels for Breastfeeding advocacy day, where the awards will be officially presented.

For more information about COBA or the Breastfeeding Champion Awards please email info@okbreastfeeding.org