Motherhood: An Anti-Feminism?
🇫“Être mère ne diminue en rien mes réalisations ou mon ambition. Pourtant, on nous fait souvent sentir le contraire.” These words from Reshma Saujani highlight the erroneous perception of motherhood that was at the heart of the MomsFirst Summit organized by her, where she brilliantly exposed the numerous challenges mothers face today. Saujani, founder of Girls Who Code and MomsFirst, uses her platform to denounce injustice and advocate for systemic change for 50% of humanity.
Historical Context and Feminist Theory
At this summit, Reshma Saujani recalls the phrase from researcher Andrea O’Reilly: “Motherhood… is the unfinished business of feminism.” To understand this assertion, it is essential to delve into history. From the 1970s, motherhood progressively became an unthought-of concept in feminism, although mobilizations against the medical and institutional appropriation of women and mothers have existed for at least fifty years (source). The choice to become a mother remains a delicate subject that divides feminists since women's autonomy and freedom become more precarious when they give birth. Reshma Saujani points out that when second-wave feminism was at its peak with Title IX, the contraceptive pill, the Equal Pay Act, and Roe v. Wade (abortion rights), one word was largely absent from the feminist lexicon: motherhood.
For many second-wave feminists, becoming a mother meant you couldn’t possibly be a truly liberated woman. And to many members of the old guard, women who worked couldn’t possibly be “good mothers.” Thus, the movement split, leaving many mothers—especially single mothers and mothers of color—behind.
The very idea of motherhood has been the subject of several writings and has been influenced by the various ideologies that have marked the feminist movement. Figures like Simone de Beauvoir argued that motherhood, even when desired, forces women to relinquish their sovereignty and freedom. This perspective led to a tension between freedom and motherhood, well summarized by Françoise Guénette: “I will never be free again, alone to decide about my body and my life.”
Feminist Debates in the Modern Era
And yet in 2024, motherhood and its desire or lack thereof have never been more central to feminist debates.
As birth rates plummet in developed countries, politicians are desperately seeking solutions. In the United States, former President Donald Trump has floated the idea of bonuses for women who have more children if he is re-elected. French President Emmanuel Macron aims to "demographically rearm" France, which already dedicates 3.5 to 4% of its GDP to family policies. South Korean leaders, facing one of the lowest birth rates globally, have invested up to $211 billion since 2006 to increase the fertility rate. Despite these substantial financial incentives, and some tangible results, experts argue these measures will likely fail.
Fertility rates in wealthy countries are alarmingly below the replacement level of 2.1 children per woman. On average, these rates are only 1.6. Governments’ concerns are understandable, but they often rest on a misapprehension of the deeper social and economic factors influencing family size. Policies focused solely on financial incentives often neglect deeper social and economic factors, such as:
- High cost of living
- Housing affordability
- Career aspirations
- Access to childcare
- Work-life balance
- Cultural views
The Current Challenges for Mothers in France
Fifty years later, mothers are still struggling. In France, despite paid maternity leave policies, numerous challenges persist. According to an INSEE study, 39% of French women find it difficult to balance work and family life (source). Childcare services, though available, remain costly. In major cities like Paris, the average cost of a daycare spot for a child under three can exceed 600 euros per month (source).
The Motherhood Penalty
Income inequality between men and women also persists. When men become fathers, their salaries increase by an average of 6%, while women’s salaries decrease by 4% per child (source). Among employees working primarily in the private sector in 2022, women earned an average of 23.5% less in salary income and 14.9% less in full-time equivalent (FTE) than men. Their annual working time was 10.1% lower than that of men. This motherhood penalty exacerbates the economic precariousness of mothers and accentuates the challenges they face daily.
Re-evaluating Motherhood in Feminist Theory
Feminism in the 1970s focused on the maternal figure in terms of its domestic, social, genealogical, and political significance (source). Reconceiving and recontextualizing the maternal figure allowed some feminist theorists to challenge the patriarchal view of women's place in contemporary society. Can a new vision of the mother lead to new political practices given the issues presented above?
In the United States, reflection on the importance of the maternal figure revolves around three fundamental axes: motherhood as a physical feminine experience, as a patriarchal institution or ideology, and as an identity quest (source). A fourth category, that of maternal agency or activism, also emerges. Andrea O’Reilly, founder of motherhood studies, takes up Adrienne Rich’s distinction between the institution (motherhood) and the experience (mothering) of motherhood (source), opening new theoretical and political spaces to conceive female subjectivity.
Reproductive Justice
Reproductive justice, a concept championed by organizations like SisterSong Women of Color Reproductive Justice Collective, encompasses the human right to maintain personal bodily autonomy, have children, not have children, and parent the children we have in safe and sustainable communities (source). This perspective highlights the importance of including all voices in the fight for equality, for all mothers and women who do not wish to become mothers.
The Role of Companies
Companies have a major role to play in this transformation. By adopting family-friendly policies such as telework, flexible hours, on-site childcare services, training for managers, and support services for women's health from contraception to menopause, they can help create an environment where mothers can thrive professionally without sacrificing their family lives. Innovative companies are already leading the way, demonstrating that supporting mothers leads to happier and more productive employees.
A New Vision of Motherhood
Rethinking motherhood also means changing our cultural view of what it means to be a mother. Instead of seeing mothers as isolated and alone in their struggle, it is important to promote a societal vision of motherhood where support and solidarity are at the heart. This could include initiatives for mutual support among mothers, care-sharing networks, and a more inclusive and understanding culture within companies and institutions.
As Reshma Saujani reminds us, "Motherhood must be at the heart of the fight for gender equality. We cannot repeat the mistakes made fifty years ago. There is room for all of us in this struggle: mothers of color, single mothers, mothers who work and those who don’t, people who want to be mothers and those who don’t." It is only by recognizing and valuing the role of mothers that we can truly progress towards a more just and inclusive society. If motherhood is the unfinished business of gender equality, we must collectively work to complete it.
Economic Dimensions of Motherhood
The Cost of Living
One of the critical issues often neglected in discussions about incentivizing higher birth rates is the high cost of living. In many developed countries, the cost of raising children has skyrocketed, encompassing expenses related to housing, education, healthcare, and daily needs. For instance, in urban centers like Paris, London, and New York, the cost of housing alone can be prohibitive for families considering having more children. This economic burden is compounded by the need for dual incomes to maintain a reasonable standard of living, making it challenging for parents to balance work and family life.
Housing Affordability
Housing affordability is a significant barrier to larger family sizes. The availability and affordability of adequate housing are crucial factors that influence family planning decisions. Many young couples delay having children because they cannot afford a home suitable for raising a family. Policies that address housing affordability could have a more substantial impact on birth rates than direct financial incentives. Affordable housing initiatives, combined with family-friendly urban planning, can create environments conducive to raising children.
Career Aspirations and Professional Development
Modern women are increasingly career-oriented and value professional development. The decision to have children often comes with the fear of sacrificing career progress. The lack of adequate maternity leave, childcare support, and flexible work arrangements can deter women from starting or expanding their families. Companies that implement comprehensive family support policies, such as extended maternity and paternity leave, on-site childcare, and career development programs for parents, can help mitigate this issue.
Access to Childcare
Access to affordable and high-quality childcare is another critical factor. In countries where childcare is expensive and in short supply, parents, particularly mothers, may find it difficult to return to work or pursue their careers. Government-subsidized childcare programs, tax incentives for childcare expenses, and employer-supported childcare services are essential components of a holistic approach to supporting families.
Work-Life Balance
Achieving a work-life balance is vital for parents. The demands of modern careers often conflict with family responsibilities, making it challenging for parents to manage both effectively. Policies that promote flexible working hours, remote work options, and reduced working hours for parents can help achieve a better balance. Additionally, fostering a workplace culture that values and supports family life is crucial for retaining and empowering working parents.
Cultural Views on Motherhood and Family
Cultural attitudes towards motherhood and family life play a significant role in shaping family planning decisions. In some cultures, there is still a stigma attached to working mothers or women who choose not to have children. Addressing these cultural biases and promoting a more inclusive and supportive view of motherhood can help create an environment where women feel empowered to make the best choices for themselves and their families.
Socio-Economic Policies and Government Interventions
Financial Incentives vs. Structural Reforms
While financial incentives can provide temporary relief, they are not a panacea for declining birth rates. Structural reforms that address the root causes of economic and social pressures on families are necessary. Governments need to invest in long-term policies that support families holistically, including affordable housing, healthcare, education, and childcare. These policies should be designed to create a supportive environment for raising children rather than merely providing financial handouts.
The Importance of Holistic Family Policies
Holistic family policies consider the diverse needs of families and provide comprehensive support systems. These policies should include healthcare services, parental leave, childcare, education, housing, and employment support. Countries like Sweden and Denmark have implemented such comprehensive family policies, resulting in higher fertility rates and better outcomes for children and parents. By learning from these models, other countries can develop effective strategies to support families.
The Intersection of Feminism and Motherhood
Redefining Feminism to Include Motherhood
Redefining feminism to include motherhood means recognizing and valuing the role of mothers in society. Feminism should advocate for the rights and needs of mothers, ensuring they have the support and resources necessary to thrive. This includes promoting policies that support work-life balance, equal pay, and access to quality healthcare and childcare. By integrating motherhood into the feminist agenda, we can work towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
Addressing the Motherhood Penalty
The motherhood penalty refers to the economic disadvantages that women face as a result of having children. This includes lower wages, reduced career opportunities, and increased financial instability. Addressing the motherhood penalty requires systemic changes in workplace policies, social attitudes, and government support systems. By advocating for equal pay, flexible work arrangements, and comprehensive parental leave policies, we can help mitigate the impact of the motherhood penalty.
The Role of Advocacy and Activism
The Importance of Advocacy Groups
Advocacy groups play a critical role in raising awareness and driving change. Organizations like Girls Who Code and MomsFirst are leading the way in advocating for the rights and needs of mothers. These organizations provide a platform for mothers to share their experiences, advocate for policy changes, and support each other.
Grassroots Movements and Community Support
Grassroots movements and community support networks are essential for creating a supportive environment for mothers. Local initiatives, such as parent support groups, childcare cooperatives, and community education programs, can provide valuable resources and support for families. By fostering a sense of community and solidarity, these initiatives can help address the challenges faced by mothers and promote a more inclusive society.
The Global Perspective
Comparative Analysis of Family Policies
A comparative analysis of family policies across different countries can provide valuable insights into effective strategies for supporting families. Countries like Sweden, Denmark, and Norway have implemented comprehensive family policies that provide robust support for parents, resulting in higher fertility rates and better outcomes for children and families. By examining these successful models, other countries can develop and implement effective family policies.
International Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing
International collaboration and knowledge sharing are essential for addressing global challenges related to motherhood and family support. By sharing best practices, research findings, and policy innovations, countries can learn from each other and develop more effective strategies for supporting families. Organizations like the United Nations and the World Health Organization can play a crucial role in facilitating this collaboration.
The Future of Motherhood and Feminism
Vision for the Future
The future of motherhood and feminism lies in creating a society where mothers are valued and supported. This means implementing comprehensive family policies, addressing the motherhood penalty, and promoting a more inclusive and supportive cultural view of motherhood. By integrating motherhood into the feminist agenda, we can work towards a society where all women have the freedom and resources to thrive.
The Role of Technology and Innovation
Technology and innovation can play a significant role in supporting mothers and families. From remote work options to online education and healthcare services, technology can provide flexible and accessible solutions for parents. Companies and policymakers should leverage technology to create supportive environments for families, ensuring that all parents have the tools and resources they need to succeed.
Conclusion
As Reshma Saujani reminds us, "Motherhood must be at the heart of the fight for gender equality. We cannot repeat the mistakes made fifty years ago. There is room for all of us in this struggle: mothers of color, single mothers, mothers who work and those who don’t, people who want to be mothers and those who don’t." It is only by recognizing and valuing the role of mothers that we can truly progress towards a more just and inclusive society. If motherhood is the unfinished business of gender equality, we must collectively work to complete it.
Call to Action
For companies and organizations wishing to support this vision, Ninti accompanies and raises awareness among companies about women's health. By working with Ninti, companies can provide training for managers, support services for those desiring children through our online portal, and develop policies and work environments that fully support all women, contributing to a more equitable society for everyone.
Happy Mother's Day
Fatoumata Ly
Co-founder of Ninti
Ninti accompanies and sensitizes companies to women's health.
For companies and organizations wishing to support this vision, Ninti offers training for managers, support services, and develops policies and work environments that fully support all women, contributing to a more equitable society for everyone.
