MY MISSION IS TO AMPLIFY VOICES OF WORKING MOMS
“You have to be a boss, but you can’t be mean. You have to lead, but you can’t squash other people’s ideas. You’re supposed to love being a mother, but don’t talk about your kids all the damn time.” — America Ferrera as Gloria in “Barbie.”
At the heart of the recent cinematic sensation “Barbie” lies Ferrera’s resonant monologue — a poignant reminder of the trials, triumphs and unwavering strength of working mothers. Ferrera’s words, steeped in vulnerability and authenticity, encapsulate the struggles faced by working moms while celebrating their resilience. The monologue serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of these women, navigating the intricate balance between professional commitments and familial duties, often at the expense of their own well-being.
This powerful reflection underscores the heroism inherent in their journeys and prompts us to acknowledge and support their narratives.
As the founder of “Make Work Work for Moms” and a working mother myself, I am driven to elevate the experiences of working moms from diverse backgrounds, highlighting both the progress we’ve achieved and the distance we still must go to establish parent-focused systems and structures. The “Barbie” movie, featuring Ferrera’s impactful monologue, presents a unique opportunity to illuminate the lives of working moms and contribute to a narrative that champions inclusivity and empowerment. However, this potential can only be fully realized through continuous discourse, heightened awareness and meaningful action.
The challenge of accessing affordable, high-quality child care remains a significant hurdle. Insufficient child care options often compel working moms to make agonizing choices between their careers and the well-being of their children. Additionally, the persistent gender pay gap and barriers to career advancement across various industries continue to undermine working moms’ financial security and professional growth.
We all hold the power to catalyze change and enhance systems to better support working moms through advocacy and leadership. Those in positions of authority within organizations are urged to review and adapt policies concerning flexible work arrangements, encompassing flexible hours and job-sharing, while also revisiting benefits such as dependent health care and paid family leave.
Every individual possesses the capacity to make a difference. You can engage with elected officials and companies, urging them to invest in accessible, high-quality child care solutions. Such initiatives encompass government-backed subsidies, employer-sponsored child care programs and community-driven endeavors that collectively render child care more attainable.
As we endeavor to reshape the labor landscape and reintegrate working parents, particularly mothers, we stand on the brink of an extraordinary opportunity to expedite innovation and support families across the nation. I invite you to join me on this mission to make work work for moms, recognizing that when it works for moms, it inherently works for everyone.
At the heart of “Barbie” lies a poignant reminder of the trials, triumphs and unwavering strength of working mothers.
Toppel is chief operating officer of Jewish Family Service of San Diego and founder of “Make
Work Work for Moms.”
She lives in
San Diego.