Message your representatives to support universal paid leave and bold investments in childcare!
As you read this, Congress is considering enacting a national paid family and medical leave program and investments in childcare as part of a budget reconciliation package.
We are at a historic moment but we need your help to let our congresspeople know how crucial it is that universal paid leave and bold investments in childcare are part of that package!
It is urgent that Congress receive the message that the American public is demanding these investments in our care infrastructure as critical components for our recovery and long-term wellbeing. Let them know we need them to go big and go bold to ensure access to paid leave and affordable childcare for all!
Paid family leave with:
Coverage for all workers;
Twelve weeks of leave for bonding with a new child, caring for a seriously ill loved one, caring for one’s own medical needs, or addressing the impact of military deployment;
An inclusive definition that recognizes all families — so workers can care for their loved ones;
Job protection — so workers can take leave without fear of losing their jobs;
Strong wage replacement.
Robust childcare Investments that ensure:
No family pays more than 7% of their income on childcare, and many families can access care at no cost;
Childcare providers are paid a living wage;
Support growing a childcare workforce and improving facilities;
Families can find affordable, culturally-relevant, safe, childcare no matter where they live – from providers of different types.
We are so close to having a REAL opportunity to make meaningful change for thousands of workers across the country who are struggling to protect their health, care for their children and other loved ones, provide their children with affordable quality care, and stay afloat economically. It is TIME for all hands on deck to make this happen!
Tell Congress: Now is the Time for a Caring Economy!
It is up to us all to ensure our elected officials hear our voices as we demand better for working families. Join us TODAY in telling Congress to prioritize paid leave and childcare for all.
Yarrow Willman-Cole, Workplace Justice Program Director