Australian Mom’s Breastfeeding Graduation Picture Goes Viral On Facebook, Sparks Outrage

Balancing the responsibilities of motherhood while working to earn an undergraduate degree isn’t an easy feat. So, when Jacci Sharkey graduated from the University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) back in October, she was quite pleased with her accomplishments and decided to share the great news with the world!

On Sunday, November 2, Sharkey shared a picture holding her then six-week-old son. The picture, which was reportedly taken by Sharkey’s sister-in-law, captures her adorned in her cap and gown breastfeeding her infant son, reports Mirror. The picture was shared on the university’s Facebook page, as well.

The 24-year-old mother also included a caption in regards to her accomplishments. She’s had two children, and still managed to obtain her degree.

“Something that had to be shared (and yes we got permission don’t worry),” the university wrote. “From her recent graduation, this amazing photo and message was sent to us by inspiring mum Jacci Sharkey:”

“Just wanted to share a photo from the most recent graduation that I am proud of. I’m extremely proud that with the support of the Uni, during my degree I was able to have 2 babies and still finish my degree Thanks USC!”

The picture immediately began circulating on the social media network and has since gone viral. As of November 5, the picture has more than 180,000 likes, over 8,000 comments, and more than 5,500 shares.

Although most viewers congratulated Sharkey on her achievements, not everyone was pleased to see the graphic image of her breastfeeding her baby.

“I can barely look after myself while studying… I couldn’t imagine trying to do it while having two kids. Well done Jacci Sharkey. You’re a star!” said Danny Dan.

“Is her breastfeeding part of her degree? Did she graduate from breastfeeding? Was it necessary to be in cap and gown to advertise that the uni allowed her to have 2 children,” Lyn Grant wrote.

“Yea we get it its natural. But it doesn’t have to be plastered over the Internet. Its the last thing i wanted to see in my news feed. I breast feed my son and everyone continued living their lives with out seeing it!!” Tracey Spall wrote.

“Its fine to show breasts in a sexual way im sure if she was naked no man would have a problem but when a breast is used to feed a child people become disgusted. Narrow minded and idiotic! ill breastfeed my son whereever and laugh at any person who gives me a bad look :)” wrote Amellia Scerri.

During an exclusive interview with ABC News Australia, Sharkey shared her reaction to the overwhelming response her viral post has received. Although her picture has been deemed as offensive to some viewers, she expressed the good remarks have definitely outweighed the bad ones.

“I never expected it to go crazy. I thought I’d be really happy if it got 100 likes and then it’s just gone out of control. There has been a sea of thank you messages from people. Some were saying they were really worried about starting university but that I’ve helped them through it. It was really heart warming… you do come across your keyboard warriors but it’s just nice to see the positive outweighs the negative.”

Do you find Jacci Sharkey’s breastfeeding graduation photo offensive? Share your thoughts.

[Image via Facebook, University of the Sunshine Coast]