Who cares if you've discovered an endangered species or nearly died while traveling in the African Congo to bring awareness to the elusive silver back gorillas or performed in front of thousands in the NFL....you're beautiful breastfeeding picture on Facebook was shamed by a follower and reported as nudity!
Traveling mom, Explorer, Author, Wildlife Correspondent for National Geographic and Primatologist, Dr. Mireya Mayor, celebrated the birth of her fifth child and daughter with fiancee Phil Fairclough by posting beautiful post-birth pictures to social media. Among those pictures she and her fiancee proudly shared were some showing her nursing their daughter. It wasn't soon after her family welcomed her daughter home the nursing photo was reported as "inappropriate" and "nudity" on Facebook.
Of her Facebook following is a mix of family, friends, business associates and fans that have followed her adventurous career as a scientist. As a passionate wildlife advocate Dr. Mayor has seen it all. Starting off as a cheerleader for the Miami Dolphins and quickly pivoting to get her Doctorate in Primatology, she has traveled and explored rain forests, deserts, mountain ranges and discovered the smallest Lemur species on earth in destination Madagascar.
Facebook is notorious for citing and sexualizing breastfeeding pictures as indecent and inappropriate exposure of skin. It's so disheartening moms are made to feel like villains just for sharing a natural part of birth and raising a child on a platform that claims to be breastfeeding friendly. Especially, when women like Dr. Mayor have accomplished so much in their career and family life.
Dr. Mayor did not take down the image because the one disgruntled Facebook "friend" reported it. She will use it as an opportunity to bring awareness to what nursing moms experience. Shaming in public, private or on social media for nursing your baby is not right. We need to continue to bring awareness to a woman's natural and federal right to nurse in public.
What Else is Travel Mom Mireya Up To?
Dr. Mireya Mayor is a renowned explorer & travel mom, primatologist, wildlife correspondent, and conservation advocate who has captivated audiences with her daring expeditions, scientific discoveries, and dedication to protecting endangered species and habitats. Her journey from primatologist to National Geographic explorer-in-residence has been marked by extraordinary achievements and a deep commitment to environmental stewardship. Let's delve into the fascinating life and impactful work of Dr. Mireya Mayor.
Her Early Life and Academic Journey
Dr. Mireya Mayor's passion for wildlife and exploration began at a young age. Born in Miami to Cuban parents, she developed a fascination with animals and the natural world early on. Mayor's academic journey started with a degree in anthropology from the University of Miami, where she focused on primate behavior and ecology. Her undergraduate research laid the foundation for her future expeditions and studies in remote regions of the world.
Driven by a thirst and a desire to make a difference in conservation efforts, She traveled from Miami to New York to pursue a Ph.D. in anthropology at Stony Brook University. Her doctoral research took her on a travel destination to the rainforests of Madagascar, where she studied the elusive greater bamboo lemur, a critically endangered species. This groundbreaking research not only contributed to our understanding of primate behavior but also highlighted the urgent need for conservation action to protect endangered species and their habitats.
Her Adventures and Discoveries
Mayor's career as an explorer and scientist is marked by a series of daring expeditions and remarkable discoveries in some of the world's most remote and challenging environments. One of her most notable expeditions was to the jungles of Madagascar, where she discovered a new species of mouse lemur, the Berthe's mouse lemur (Microcebus berthae), which holds the title of being the world's smallest primate.
Her adventures have taken her across continents, from the dense rainforests of Madagascar to the frigid landscapes of the Arctic, where she studied polar bears and their changing habitat due to climate change. Mayor's fieldwork has not only expanded our knowledge of wildlife biology and ecology but has also shed light on the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the impact of human activities on biodiversity.
National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence
Mayor's contributions to science and conservation earned her the prestigious title of National Geographic explorer-in-residence. In this role, she has continued to lead expeditions, conduct research, and advocate for the protection of endangered species and their habitats. Mayor's work with National Geographic has brought attention to pressing environmental issues and inspired people around the world to take action to preserve our planet's natural heritage.
As a National Geographic correspondent, Mayor has appeared in numerous documentaries and television programs, sharing her experiences and discoveries with a global audience. Her storytelling skills and passion for wildlife have made her a beloved figure in the world of conservation and exploration. Her TV charm and personality now extends into the world of destination reality TV including the very popular show "Expedition Bigfoot."
Mireya's advocacy efforts extend beyond research and fieldwork to education and public engagement. She is committed to inspiring the next generation of scientists and conservationists through outreach programs, lectures, and mentorship initiatives. Mayor's work exemplifies the power of scientific inquiry and exploration in shaping conservation policies and practices that benefit both wildlife and human communities. She actively collaborates with local communities, conservation organizations, and policymakers to develop strategies for protecting endangered species and promoting biodiversity conservation.
Through her work with National Geographic and other organizations, Mireya continues to push the boundaries of exploration and conservation, leaving a legacy of discovery and stewardship for future generations to build upon. Her journey as an explorer and animal scientist has been defined by her pioneering spirit, scientific achievements, and unwavering commitment to wildlife conservation. From her groundbreaking research in Madagascar to her advocacy efforts on behalf of endangered species, Mayor has left an indelible mark on the field of primatology and environmental science. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural heritage and working together to create a sustainable future for generations to come.
To read more about Dr. Mayor's work visit www.MireyaMayor.com.
Photo Credits: Mireya Mayor
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