Written by Alyssa Grinberg
Mother, Family Advocate, Director of Communications and Marketing
On December 9th of last year, my life drastically changed as I welcomed my daughter Sonya into this world.
I had been told many times that parenting is both the hardest job and the greatest gift, but those words were abstract until her arrival. The lack of sleep, the overwhelming responsibility of caring for another human being when, let’s face it, you have no idea what you are doing – it is hard! But I consider myself lucky because I am not alone. I have my husband, a network of family and friends, and a supportive workplace who celebrate my new role and this new life. Not every family is so fortunate.
Parenting Journey provided me with 12 weeks paid-time off so that I could enjoy the precious moments with my baby and not endure economic hardship as a result. In this way, Parenting Journey walks the walk. We advocate for national paid family leave and have organizational policies that reflect our values.
I have the support of Parenting Journey, but 86% of American workers do not have access to paid leave by their employer and risk losing their jobs if they take time off to care for a new child or a sick family member. We need you to join us, to elevate the voices of parents and advocates for paid family and medical leave. No parents as they grow their family — whether through birth or adoption — should have to choose between a paycheck or time spent with their child. Public policy should support all families. It’s that simple.
There are a handful of states that have already passed family and medical leave legislation, but we won’t rest until everyone has access to paid parental leave because your ability to support your family shouldn’t depend on your zip code.
On Tuesday, May 8th, Parenting Journey put our values into action. We marched the halls of the Massachusetts State House to tell our Governor and elected officials that paid leave needs to be a reality for all families. We participated in this advocacy day with hundreds of others as part of the Raise Up Massachusetts coalition. Joining forces and delivering messages to our elected officials is just the beginning! #RaiseUpMA #mapoli
I cared about this cause long before I became a parent, but my new role has fueled my fire. The time spent on leave with Sonya those first few months was precious, and I want all parents to receive the same opportunities given to me. No person should have to risk losing their job or financial ruin in order to care for a newborn or the health of a loved one. Please join us in raising our voice now, so that all workers have protected paid family and medical leave.
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