The lengthy election season has finally come to a close. Whether you’re feeling joy, despair, fear, anger, hope, or simply relief from the incessant political ads, one thing is clear: we have a monumental amount of work ahead of us.
Challenges that affect families don’t just vanish; they evolve over time. It’s insufficient to merely bandy about phrases like “family values” or “work-life balance” when our nation fails to take meaningful action to enable American families to flourish. Right now, far too many families are merely surviving, leaving little room for genuine thriving.
The election may be behind us, but our efforts are far from over. Advocating for equality, justice, and safety is a continuous journey. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work. Here are some crucial areas to focus on:
Immediate Need for Paid Family Leave
The current maternity leave regulations in the United States are outdated and ineffective for many families. Governed by the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) of 1993, new parents can only take up to 12 weeks off without pay after the birth or adoption of a child, but this is contingent on having worked for their employer for at least a year and clocked 1,250 hours.
This policy excludes many workers, as it only applies to businesses with over 50 employees. Worse yet, it does not mandate paid leave, leaving families at a financial disadvantage during a crucial time. For family leave to truly be beneficial, it must be a paid benefit, as is the case in numerous other countries. Alarmingly, the U.S. stands alone among 41 nations that do not require any paid leave for new parents, and this is detrimental to everyone involved.
Medical experts, such as Dr. Lisa Greene, a pediatrician at the University of California, believe we should at least double the current 12-week leave. “By six months, the parent-child bond is significantly strengthened, and finding childcare becomes easier,” she notes.
Equal Pay for Equal Work
The gender pay gap remains a pressing issue, with women earning approximately 23% less than men, according to the National Organization for Women. This discrepancy is even more pronounced for women of color. Despite attempts to rationalize these figures, the reality is clear: women are underpaid, and we must actively seek solutions to rectify this imbalance.
With nearly half of two-parent households now relying on both parents to work full-time, and mothers serving as the primary breadwinners in 40% of families with children, an underpaid mother translates to an underpaid family.
Closing the gender pay gap requires collective effort from individuals, families, employers, and policymakers. Women must feel empowered to negotiate salaries and raise their voices for fairness, while men need to share household responsibilities to ensure equitable distribution of labor at home. Employers should implement paid family leave and conduct salary audits to ensure equity. Legislative measures, such as the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009, are a start, but further action is essential—like increasing the minimum wage and broadening the Equal Rights Amendment.
Childcare Shouldn’t Cost a Fortune
It’s staggering to note that in 33 states, the cost of infant care exceeds that of college tuition—$9,589 per year for daycare compared to $9,410 for higher education. This reality forces families into a tough spot, as taking time off work to care for children can cost them hundreds of thousands in lost income and retirement savings. Solutions like subsidized childcare, tax credits, and public education are crucial for easing this burden.
Healthcare Is a Fundamental Right
While we do have some positive aspects in our healthcare system, it still falls short in many areas. Millions of Americans lack health insurance, and countless others struggle with exorbitant deductibles. Insurance companies often prioritize profits over patient care, leaving postpartum mothers in particularly vulnerable positions. We need a healthcare system that works for everyone—not just the privileged few.
Building Bridges in a Divided Nation
The rifts in our society run deep. Racism, sexism, and bigotry continue to fester, and these wounds won’t heal on their own. Often, just a few minutes of news coverage can leave one feeling overwhelmed. However, inaction will accomplish nothing.
While the issues may seem insurmountable, small daily actions can contribute to a better world. We might not solve every problem, but every little bit helps when it comes to spreading kindness and compassion.
The effort to enhance our nation and support families is an ongoing commitment, not limited to election cycles or individual leaders. The challenges facing families and women’s rights will persist, and there are no quick fixes. This work is hard, but it’s essential—and I believe we’re up for the challenge.
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In summary, the work to uplift American families is never-ending and requires collective action and commitment from all of us.