It's National Breastfeeding Week, and a coalition of lactation organizations in Rockland County is raising awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding.

Mothers gathered at Congers Memorial Park to celebrate National Breastfeeding Week, a time to acknowledge barriers and stigmas that still exist and also to celebrate progress.

"Breastfeeding, breast milk is important, it’s important for babies, moms and families," said Patricia Guzman, lactation consultant with Montefiore Nyack Hospital - a partner in the Rockland County Lactation Coalition.

She applauds a new state law that went into effect last month requiring employers to designate a room or location - not a restroom - for employees to express breast milk.

"The importance of supporting families is paramount," she said.

The World Health Organization recommends mother breastfeed babies until the age of 2.