Breastfeeding in public - acceptable or not?

Breastfeeding is a controversial topic. Although it is completely natural, some are greatly offended when it is done in public. I can understand how it can be offensive if it is openly done in public, meaning the woman does not bother to cover herself appropriately, but I do not understand why it is such an issue if the woman takes care to cover up. Personally, I never breastfed my children in public. This was due to the fact that I was uncomfortable with it, however I do not take issue with women who do it, as long as it is not "in my face", so to speak. There were a few times, that I did have to do it, but I always covered up and never tried to draw attention to myself. Wowen in the past have been asked to leave public establishments if they breastfeed publicly, but laws state the women are allowed to do this. In some states, there are laws protecting nursing mothers. I do not understand why it is such an issue. It is more likely that a man would be offended or disgusted, whereas a woman would not have a problem with it. All of my friends who were nursing were always sensitive to offending people and always covered themselves. If they cover themselves then I do not believe this should be a problem, no matter the location. When a baby is in need of feeding, breastfeeding is most convenient and also a much healthier means for the baby. It amazes me that women have to be given the "right" to breastfeed in public venues. There are laws as to how much of one's breast is allowed to show in public, and I do understand this, as I do not want to look at another women's breast. I do however believe women should have the right to do this whenever neccessary. Why should a woman be exiled to a bathroom? How can something so natural cause such conflict? Are women supposed to stay cooped up for a year, which is the median length the women traditionally breast feed? How are they supposed to attend to their duties, such as: grocery shopping and running errands. Although, mothers can prepare ahead by feeding at home, there are times that the babies will need to feed again because they have been out and about for a longer period of time. Women often are offered negative critiscms or dirty looks. What is the difference between a nursing animal and a nursing mother? Nothing in my eyes. As I stated earlier, this is a natural and neccessary process. People should not be so judgemental and need to get over it.