Janice Clarke, BS, IBCLC
Janice Clarke (pronounced Ja-niece), she/her, is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, IBCLC, and the founder of JC Lactation Counseling, a Bronx-based private practice offering prenatal breastfeeding education and postpartum lactation support. Her journey into lactation consulting began
after experiencing her own breastfeeding challenges following the birth of her son in 2019.
With a background in public health and environmental health and safety, Janice transitioned into lactation work to address racial disparities in breastfeeding support and provide culturally competent care. She has trained through the Center for Breastfeeding, becoming a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC), completed
the LER Lactation Consultant Bridge Course, and earned over 500 clinical hours through one-on-one mentorship and hospital internships. In addition to her private practice, she works with Public Health Solutions’ New York City Breastfeeding Warmline and has presented at multiple breastfeeding advocacy events and breastfeeding coalitions/associations. Janice is passionate about empowering parents with evidence-based guidance and creating a supportive community for lactating families.
The unique challenges of Black breastfeeding
The unique challenges of Black breastfeeding explores the historical, cultural, and systemic factors that shape breastfeeding experiences for Black women and birthing people in the United States, from the legacy of slavery and targeted formula marketing to racial bias and health disparities. Participants will examine deeply rooted breastfeeding myths in Black communities, their impact on milk production and breastfeeding duration, and the role of cultural humility in providing equitable lactation support. This presentation also addresses actionable steps for improving representation and opportunity for BIPOC professionals within the lactation field.