Well, folks, the longest election cycle in history has finally drawn to a close. Whether you’re feeling jubilant, anxious, frustrated, or just relieved that political ads are out of sight for a while, one thing is crystal clear: We have a mountain of work ahead of us.
The challenges facing families don’t just vanish; they evolve over time. It’s simply not enough to spout empty phrases about “family values” or “work-life balance” when our nation isn’t actively working to uplift American families. Right now, far too many families are merely surviving instead of truly thriving.
The election may be over, but our mission certainly isn’t. The quest for equality, justice, and safety is an ongoing endeavor. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started! Here are a few key areas where we can make a difference:
We Need Paid Family Leave—Like, Yesterday.
The U.S. maternity leave policies are stuck in the past and fail to support many families. Currently, we’re operating under the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993, which allows new parents a measly 12 weeks of unpaid leave, provided they’ve worked with their employer for more than a year and logged 1,250 hours. But wait, there’s more! This law only applies to businesses with over 50 employees, leaving those in smaller companies high and dry. Plus, since the FMLA doesn’t guarantee paid leave, many families are left scrambling financially. For real change, we need paid leave that’s actually utilized—something many other countries already have in place. Shockingly, the U.S. is the only one among 41 nations that doesn’t mandate paid leave for new parents, and it’s hurting us all. Experts, like Dr. Laura Mitchell from Stanford University, argue that six months of leave should be the bare minimum. “New parents need time to bond and adjust,” she says.
Equal Pay for Equal Work.
It’s no secret that women are paid less than men—about 23% less, according to the National Organization for Women. This gap is even wider for women of color. While the reasons behind these disparities are often debated, the reality remains: women earn less. And with nearly half of two-parent households having both parents working full-time, underpaying women affects entire families. Tackling the gender pay gap is a collective responsibility. Women should feel empowered to negotiate salaries, while men need to share household responsibilities more equitably. Employers can implement fair pay practices and self-audit their policies. Laws like the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009 were steps in the right direction, but more is needed—such as raising the minimum wage or expanding the Equal Rights Amendment.
Childcare Costs Shouldn’t Match College Tuition.
According to The Care Index, in 33 states, daycare for infants costs more than college tuition—$9,589 a year for daycare compared to $9,410 for college. Let that sink in! Families face a tough choice: leave the workforce to care for kids or pay exorbitant childcare costs. Solutions like subsidized childcare, tax credits, paid family leave, and improved public education can ease this burden.
Healthcare Is a Human Right, Not a Privilege.
While we have some fantastic healthcare systems in place, millions of Americans still lack insurance and struggle with out-of-pocket costs. Many new mothers face inadequate postpartum care. The system often prioritizes profit over patient care, and this needs to change. We can do better, and we must, because lives are literally on the line.
Building Bridges in a Divided Nation.
It’s painfully clear we’re living in a divided country. Racism, misogyny, and prejudice are deeply ingrained, and these issues won’t resolve on their own. While it’s tempting to hide away from the chaos, we can’t afford to do nothing. Even small, daily actions can contribute to a more compassionate world. We might not solve every issue, but every bit of kindness and understanding counts.
Remember, the work to improve our society doesn’t end with an election or a single leader. The challenges that affect families and women’s rights persist, and there are no easy solutions. This is tough, vital work—but I believe we’re more than capable of rising to the occasion.
For more insights on family support and pregnancy, check out this excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination at Healthline. And if you’re interested in how to navigate your fertility journey, be sure to visit Couples Fertility Journey.
Summary
We’ve got our work cut out for us if we want to truly support American families. From advocating for paid family leave and equal pay to addressing outrageous childcare costs and ensuring healthcare access, the mission is ongoing. Each small action counts, and together, we can foster a more equitable society.