As a Catholic mother of seven, I am personally invested in family policy, and I can confidently say that our current system is not working. The recent Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade shed light on the significant impact of unrestricted abortion on mothers over generations. While the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization ruling was a victory, it also highlighted America’s failure to support mothers effectively.
Both pro-life and pro-choice advocates were faced with challenges following the Dobbs decision. Despite the opportunity to reevaluate our approach to supporting mothers, states like Kansas, Michigan, and Ohio preferred to maintain the status quo on abortion. On the other hand, pro-choice supporters focused more on codifying Roe rather than addressing the deeper issues faced by mothers.
For my husband and me, choosing to raise a large family outside of the government school system was a deliberate decision based on the support we received from family and church communities. However, many women do not have the same level of support. Factors like the breakdown of the nuclear family, subpar education, rising costs, ideological influences, and healthcare expenses create a discouraging environment for motherhood.
Now that abortion is not a guaranteed option in all states, it is crucial for us to come together and find real solutions that prioritize and support motherhood. We must address the root causes that deter women from embracing motherhood and work towards building a society where motherhood is valued and supported.
Policy changes, such as eliminating gender-neutral terms and focusing on supporting mothers through legislation, could make a significant difference in creating a pro-family culture. Strengthening relationships between mothers and fathers, investing in job creation, expanding child tax credits, and reforming childcare benefits are all steps towards empowering mothers and families.
Listening to the needs and desires of women, especially in lower and middle-class communities, is essential in developing effective policies. Rather than promoting universal daycare, we should consider supporting stay-at-home mothers to achieve better outcomes for both mothers and children. Alternatives to abortion should also be promoted, as research shows that many women feel pressured into abortions and would choose differently with more support.
By shifting our focus towards building a society centered around the bond between mothers and children, we can create a more supportive and nurturing environment for families. This Mother’s Day, let us commit to working together to uplift and empower mothers and children across the nation.
