Mothers Day cards are a staple in our society, a way to show appreciation and love for the women who have given us life. However, as we celebrate mothers on this special day, it’s important to acknowledge the struggles and challenges that come with being a mother in today’s world. From the constant juggle of responsibilities to the societal pressures and discrimination faced by mothers, it’s time for a change. It’s time for a Mothering Independence Day.
The idea that mothering should be difficult is ingrained in our society. We see it in the endless memes celebrating the “struggle and juggle” of motherhood, but in doing so, we fail to liberate and empower those who are at the forefront of this role. The truth is, the motherhood penalty is a harsh reality that affects not only women but also men and the economy as a whole.
The very act of carrying children puts women at a disadvantage in the workplace. Employers often fear the obligations that come with maternity rights, and this fear is only reinforced by the lack of paternity rights. This perpetuates the notion that it’s the responsibility of women to have children, while men can continue to focus on their careers. As a result, women face discrimination, pay cuts, and demotions when they become mothers. This not only harms their economic growth but also reinforces outdated gender stereotypes.
In 2023, the pay gap between mothers and fathers was a staggering 24% per hour. This gap is not just about wages; it’s about the perception of mothers in the workplace. They are often seen as less competent and committed, especially when compared to fathers. This is further perpetuated by politicians who compete to highlight the importance of being present in the office, rather than acknowledging the time lost in trying to balance childcare and work.
The solution proposed by some is to “get a nanny,” as if wanting to spend time with your child in person is a luxury. However, the reality is that the UK has some of the most expensive childcare in the world. The government’s failure to properly invest in this critical infrastructure has only worsened the situation. As a result, many families, especially those on the lowest incomes, struggle to access affordable and quality childcare.
Even when flexible working rights are in place, they are often not enough. Flexibility does not equate to spontaneity, and many workplaces still expect parents to plan their childcare on a weekly basis. This is not feasible for many, and it only adds to the stress and burden of being a working mother.
Unfortunately, the issue of motherhood and the challenges it brings often takes a backseat in political discussions. Instead, politicians focus on debates about AI and the potential of technology, while the needs and struggles of mothers are overlooked. It’s time to change this narrative and prioritize the needs of mothers and families.
Mothers also face discrimination in unexpected ways, such as being cut out of important discussions or decisions because they can’t drop everything at a moment’s notice. This is a result of the societal expectations and stereotypes surrounding motherhood. From those who expect women to treat their children as if they are puppies that can be left with a stranger, to those who believe mothers should “enjoy their time off” during school holidays, the discourse surrounding motherhood is designed to reinforce patriarchal norms.
Moreover, motherhood is often associated with risk rather than reward. This is evident in the alarming statistics of domestic abuse during pregnancy and the inadequate maternity care provided by many hospitals. Even after giving birth, women are expected to continue working, often doing the majority of unpaid work in the household. Globally, women do three-quarters of the world’s unpaid work, equating to 11 billion hours a day, three times more than men.
It’s clear that the system is not working for mothers, especially those from marginalized communities. The lack of support and resources only adds to the challenges they face. It’s time for a change, and it starts with acknowledging the value and contribution of mothers.
As we have seen in recent years, the topic of family has become a battleground for political debates. Whether it’s discussions about restricting access to abortion or promoting the idea of traditional gender roles, women’s bodies are often at the center of these culture wars. It’s time to put an end to this and focus on empowering mothers and valuing their role in society.
Mothers don’t need more memes about how they are “doing great
