During the 2016 Scotties Tournament of Hearts in Grande Prairie, Alberta, Jennifer Jones reacted to the plight of fellow mothers, prompting her to take action. Although not actively breastfeeding then, the renowned Canadian curler empathized with the challenges of nursing infants amidst high-level competition in various inadequate locations.
At the event, nursing mothers faced restrictions on breastfeeding in locker rooms due to insurance concerns. This led to suggestions for nursing in cold parking lots, a distant curling club, or in the stands. Dissatisfied with the situation, Jones felt compelled to advocate for change.
In a candid revelation to a Winnipeg Free Press reporter, Jones highlighted the issue anonymously. Subsequently, following public disclosure, tournament organizers responded by allocating a designated area for nursing mothers.
Reflecting on her experiences and challenges, Jones, the author of the memoir Rock Star: My Life on and Off the Ice, emphasized the importance of addressing overlooked issues to foster equality.
‘All I ever wanted to do was be a mom’
Jennifer Jones, a decorated curler with numerous accolades including an Olympic gold medal, faced a pivotal moment upon discovering her pregnancy in 2012. Balancing motherhood aspirations with professional commitments, Jones navigated the demands of both realms.
Overcoming injury and postpartum challenges, Jones returned to competitive curling with determination. Juggling childcare responsibilities with rigorous tournament schedules posed additional hurdles, requiring her to nurse her child amidst matches without adequate privacy.
Recalling instances where nursing mothers were inconvenienced by inadequate facilities, Jones emphasized the need for improved accommodations and support for athlete-mothers.
Despite progress in recent years, Jones highlighted the evolving landscape of sports, citing instances of enhanced family-friendly policies and facilities, underscoring the importance of collective advocacy for inclusivity.
‘I wish I would have shouted it from the rooftops’
Reflecting on her past approach to advocacy, Jones expressed regret over not taking a more vocal stance initially. With hindsight and personal growth, she acknowledged the significance of assertive advocacy for gender equality and maternal support in the sporting arena.
“Now as a mom of two daughters, as a woman, I look back and I just wish I would have just been front and centre and said, ‘This is wrong,’ and attached my name to it,” said Jones, emphasizing the importance of assertive advocacy for lasting change.
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