Mothering Justice

Stopping your scroll to show you the cover of this week’s issue of The New Yorker. The piece is “A Mother’s Work” by R. Kikuo Johnson. The labor of #CareWorkers and unpaid #Caregivers is the backbone of our economy, making all other work possible. To build an equitable future, we must invest in the #CareEconomy, recognizing that this crucial work overwhelmingly has rested and continues to rest on the shoulders of mamas of color. Let’s uplift, support, and advocate for them 💪🏾✊🏾

Honoring Labor Day means recognizing all forms of labor—including the unpaid work that mamas do every day. Swipe through to learn why it’s time to #CompensateMothers and push for real change 💪🏾 #LaborDay

We’re excited to share our latest research, conducted in partnership with Brenda P. Lee & Associates, which illuminates the unique challenges Black and Latina mamas face in Michigan. The report, “Empowering BIPOC Moms: A Comprehensive Study on the Wellbeing of Michigan’s Mothers,” explores critical issues like financial instability, childcare costs, and limited support that disproportionately impact their health and wellbeing. At Mothering Justice, we’re committed to listening to mamas and addressing these systemic issues to create a better future for all! Read the full report here: https://lnkd.in/gwtsBM2U

Today marks 104 years since the passing of the 19th Amendment—a pivotal step towards women’s voting rights. However, it’s essential to remember that this milestone didn’t secure the vote for all women. Black, Native, and Asian American women continued to face barriers until the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Since then, mamas of color have become a powerful force at the polls. As we honor this legacy on #WomensEqualityDay, let’s keep pushing for true equality and ensure we all show up to vote on November 5th! As women, sisters, daughters, and mothers of color, our voices matter. #VotelikeaMama.

Paid Leave and Earned Paid Sick Time (EPST) are critical issues we’re championing through Mama’s Agenda 💪🏾 Women often bear the brunt of caregiving responsibilities—caring for elderly parents, children, or ill partners—on top of their jobs. Without paid sick days, many women face the impossible choice between earning a paycheck and caring for their loved ones. Tune in as our team shares why access to earned paid sick time matters to them 🙌🏾 and why we’re still celebrating our Supreme Court victory of restoring the EPST ballot initiatives in Michigan! 🥳

🎤 Join us for a Night of Community & Courage 🕯️ Caring Out Loud is more than just an event—it’s a powerful evening where personal stories reveal the raw reality of what it means to care for loved ones in a system that often leaves us unsupported. From chosen families stepping up in times of crisis to parents making impossible decisions, these stories shine a light on the daily challenges working families face. 🗓️ Whether you’re with us in person or tuning in via live stream, your presence helps amplify these voices. Let’s break the silence, uplift our communities, and push for a future where everyone has the freedom & time to care. 🔗Register now: https://lnkd.in/ehiA2tcc #CaringOutLoud #CareIsEssential #CommunityStories

Still riding the wave of victory! 🎉 Last week, we celebrated a historic win in the fight for justice at our victory party, marking the restoration of Michigan Time to Care (PA 338) and Michigan One Fair Wage (PA 337)! It was an unforgettable night, shared with the incredible mamavists and advocates who stood with us every step of the way. A special thank you to ROC Michigan! This victory is yours to celebrate! 💜✊🏾 Missed the news? Here’s the backstory 👇🏾 In 2018, the Michigan Time To Care proposal (PA 338) and Michigan One Fair Wage proposal (PA 337) were poised for the ballot, but the Republican-led legislature adopted and then weakened them in the same session, cutting crucial benefits. This tactic was ruled unconstitutional by the Michigan Supreme Court, thanks to Article 2, Section 9 of the Michigan Constitution. The ruling in Mothering Justice v. Attorney General is a game-changer for families and providers of color.

It was great to spend time with Mothering Justice this last week. It's amazing what happens when women are heard, when moms make policy, and when women of color lead.

'Enjoy your holiday!' 'I'd love to be paid to sit at home' 'You're not working on maternity leave so why should you be paid' I think maternity leave has a bit of an image problem. 🤔 The reality is often so far from people's expectations or online portrayals. That *doesn't* mean it's any less wonderful / exhilarating / beautiful / full of love. But it *does* maybe take a way from the actual labour ('scuse the pun 🤣) that goes on during this period. Other things our community added to the 'things people don't see' list: 👉 The pressure of being needed 24/7 and never having a day off 👉 Being touched out 👉 Handling competing demands for attention from an older sibling 👉 Loss of identity 👉 Managing huge physical changes 👉 Repetitive busy boredom 👉 Change of friendships 👉 Centring your whole being around your children Maternity leave is a precious time, and there are many special, lovely moments. But please don't call it a holiday 😇 Iceberg inspiration from Rachel Carrell ❤️

Did you #VoteLikeAMama? We sure did! 💪🏾🙌🏾 Last week’s Michigan Primaries were full of energy as we marched to the polls with DETROIT ACTION and collected surveys and handed out swag bags across Detroit on Election Day! We loved connecting with our amazing mamas along the way! 🤝🏾 Today, we’re cheering on our Connecticut, Minnesota, Vermont, and Wisconsin mamas as they head to the polls. Alaska, Florida, and Wyoming—you’re up next! Make your voice heard! 🇺🇸💜