Lawyers aren't generally accused of having a sense of humor. Case in point: the letter from the National Pork Board to Jennifer Laycock, aka: The Lactivist, who is being threatened with a suit for alleged trademark violations. Her humorous t-shirt, pictured right, is the cause of the kerfuffle.
Excerpt from the National Pork Board letter:
"National Pork Board considers your use of the slogan "The Other White Milk" to be a trademark infringement and also trademark dilution." Moreover, even were this use of the slogan "the Other White Milk" found to be not confusing, which we think is unlikely, this slogan nevertheless damages National Pork Board's rights in the famous mark THE OTHER WHITE MEAT. Because the slogan significantly dilutes the distinctiveness of National Pork Board's mark.
In addition, your use of this slogan also tarnishes the good reputation of National Pork Board's mark, in light of your apparent attempt to promote the use of breastmilk beyond merely for infant consumption, such as with the following slogans on your website in close proximity to the slogan "The Other White Milk:"
DAIRY DIVA
NURSING, NATURE'S OWN BREAST ENHANCEMENT
EAT AT MOM'S, FAST; FRESH; FROM THE BREAST
MY MILK IS THE BREAST
[emphasis added]
I have to agree with National Pork here. Obviously these shirts are promoting other uses for breastmilk. And reading these shirts gives me all kinds of ideas. As a breastfeeding mother, I can finally cash in on all this nutrient goodness. I'm opening a stand in my neighborhood today! The sign will read "Mama's Milk Stand: 3 Sucks for a Buck."
