Take action for working moms! Join our virtual event on childcare solutions.
May is a month for celebrating mothers, and what better way to honor them than by advocating for policies that empower them to thrive both at home and as business leaders? In the United States, the lack of comprehensive paid family leave and access to affordable childcare remain significant challenges for working mothers, especially those who are also entrepreneurs.
In 2023, 74% of mothers were in the workforce, even as they shouldered a majority of their families' unpaid caregiving responsibilities. A recent survey by the National Partnership for Women & Families found that only 27% of private sector workers have access to paid family leave and the figure drops to a mere 6% for workers with low incomes. This disproportionately impacts workers with lower incomes and women of color, hindering their ability to balance work and family.
Why Paid Family Leave Matters:
Supporting Mothers' Health and Well-being
Paid family leave is not merely a workplace benefit; it is a fundamental support system for mothers' health and well-being. The early months after childbirth are a crucial time for bonding with a newborn and for a mother's physical recovery. Paid family leave allows mothers to focus on their health and their child's needs without the financial pressure of returning to work prematurely.
Strengthening Families
Paid family leave benefits extend beyond mothers, fathers, and other caregivers, allowing families to navigate challenging situations like caring for a sick family member or a new child's arrival, without facing economic hardships or compromising their financial stability.
Boosting the Economy
Studies show that paid family leave policies benefit businesses by reducing employee turnover and absenteeism. Additionally, healthy and supported families are more likely to contribute positively to the economy.
Looking ahead, it is imperative that we take concerted action to address the systemic inequities that hinder access to paid family leave. We must advocate for universal policies that ensure all workers, regardless of income or background, have the support they need to care for their families while pursuing their professional aspirations. Investing in affordable, high-quality childcare infrastructure is essential for alleviating the burdens faced by working parents and fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
Mark your calendars!
United WE is committed to supporting mothers through family leave policies and empowering women entrepreneurs, who are vital to our economy. Next week, we will be releasing a new study from our National Women's Entrepreneur Childcare Project. This study dives deep into the childcare needs of 750 women business owners with children under age six.
Join our virtual webinar on June 4th from 1:00 PM CT (2:00 PM ET, 11:00 AM PT) to learn key findings of the survey and explore policy solutions to support women business owners and fuel economic growth.
Register for the event and take action to support working mothers in your community!