Influencer Mandi Vakili Faces Backlash Over Breastfeeding Comments

Mandi Vakili, sister of Love Island star Anna Vakili, has drawn significant criticism for stating that she finds women breastfeeding in public "uncomfortable." Vakili, an influencer, shared her views in a now-deleted clip from her podcast, "Sisters In The City."

In the clip, the 34-year-old expressed her discomfort, saying, "I'm going to be the first one to say it. I don't like it when I see women breastfeeding in public. It makes me uncomfortable." She elaborated that witnessing a woman breastfeeding in a restaurant, particularly when accompanied by her father, creates an awkward situation for her family.

Vakili's comments, which were accompanied by hand gestures mimicking breastfeeding, quickly went viral on social media, prompting a strong reaction from many users. Critics argued that her opinion is rooted in misogyny and perpetuates the idea that women's bodies are subject to the male gaze. Many pointed out that breasts are naturally designed for feeding and that society has been working to normalize public breastfeeding.

Commenters expressed disappointment, with some stating, "Years and years of trying to normalise something natural within society for a doris with a mic to try undo it all." Others added, "I'm sorry but calling breastfeeding in public 'uncomfortable' is not just an opinion when we already have mums hiding to feed their babies." They also emphasized that public breastfeeding is legal and not inherently sexual, and that mothers should not feel obligated to make others comfortable at the expense of their child's needs.

Vakili later responded to the backlash, clarifying that her discomfort was specific to instances where women breastfeed without covering. She reiterated that she respects the right to breastfeed but believes her opinion on the matter is valid and that people are becoming overly sensitive. "Everyone needs to toughen up... in my opinion," she stated.

Some social media users defended Vakili, with one commenter agreeing, "I couldn’t agree more and I’m a woman!" Another suggested, "Breastfeed in public but cover up. There's so many breastfeeding covers out there."

The Equality Act 2010 protects the rights of breastfeeding mothers in the UK, making it illegal to discriminate against them in public places like cafes, shops, or on public transport. NHS England guidance also advises that breastfeeding mothers should never be made to feel uncomfortable and that it is unlawful for anyone to ask a breastfeeding woman to leave a public place.