Your cart is currently empty!
Political Issues Are Parenting Issues
Updated: July 29, 2023
Originally Published: June 27, 2023
I’ve always been a glass-half-full kind of person. I genuinely believe that most folks have good intentions and that the world can be a lovely place. Some might label me an overly optimistic idealist—perhaps with a sprinkle of naiveté. But I refuse to fall into the “people are terrible” mindset.
To combat that negativity, I made a conscious choice this year to embrace an IDGAF attitude and focus less on what strangers think. Yet, as the world spins a bit crazier, that’s becoming increasingly challenging.
We don’t need a news flash to recognize that the world is a bit off-kilter lately. A quick scroll through social media or the news suggests our country—and even the globe—is in disarray. With self-serving politicians, judgmental naysayers, and relentless internet trolls, it’s tough to maintain my blissful bubble.
Every election cycle brings its own brand of madness, but this one feels particularly wild. We’ve got a man with a questionable hairstyle vying for the presidency and politicians more focused on funding from groups like the NRA than on saving lives. Meanwhile, some people are obsessing over bathroom policies while ignoring serious issues on college campuses. #theworldsiswild
And when we moms try to bring these pressing matters to light, we often get shushed. We’re told to stick to “mom issues.” Excuse me, WHAT?!
I’ve seen comments urging mothers to “shut up” or declaring that a mother’s platform should be free of political discussions. I’ve read criticisms for not sticking solely to parenting topics and for daring to address “political issues.” Well, you know what? Forget that noise.
Yes, I’m a mom, but here’s a revelation: I have opinions—strong ones. And all the mothers I know do too. We have thoughts, ideas, and feelings that extend beyond playdates and diaper duty. We didn’t check our brains at the door when our kids arrived, and it’s downright misogynistic to imply we should silence ourselves.
Moms are intelligent, capable individuals. We juggle families and careers, organize community events, and manage budgets. Many of us hold advanced degrees and have a wealth of experience. Our minds are brimming with knowledge, and we shouldn’t be pigeonholed into discussing only the mundane aspects of parenthood. We love our yoga pants, but we also have bigger conversations to engage in.
I’m not saying we need to all agree. Healthy debate is essential. But if your response to our discussions is simply “shut up” or “stick to mom stuff,” expect a nonverbal middle finger in return.
If you’d rather not read about issues like gun control or reproductive rights, that’s fine! If you disagree with my views on paid family leave or contraceptive access, I’m open to hearing your thoughts. But if your only response is to silence us, shame on you. When mothers are told to stick to “mom issues,” it erases the progress made by those who fought for our voices to be heard.
Shushing mothers is not just sexist; it’s short-sighted. These are not merely political issues; they are parenting issues that affect our children’s lives.
It’s often said that politics shouldn’t be discussed in polite company. But if we can chat about breastfeeding and sleep schedules, we absolutely should be able to tackle topics like reproductive rights and safety in our schools. If the safety of our children—like the risk of violence in their classrooms—doesn’t qualify as a parenting issue, what does?
These matters transcend party lines; they’re family issues, and they absolutely matter. We should be discussing them at playdates and while watching our kids swim. We live in this world together, and we all have a stake in our children’s futures.
Being a mom comes with immense privilege and responsibility. It’s a privilege to raise a family and witness their growth. But that privilege also demands we use our voices for change, ensuring the world our children inherit is a good one.
I refuse to look my kids in the eye someday and apologize for not addressing the crucial issues because I was too busy focusing on diapers and playgroups. Our children deserve more than that, and so do we.
So yes, I will keep advocating for gun control, parental leave, and reproductive rights. These issues are deeply intertwined with parenting and life itself. And if you’re not on board? Well, to be frank, I don’t care.
For more insights, you might want to check out this blog post on home insemination, or visit this excellent resource for information on pregnancy and home insemination. If you’re looking for something to boost fertility for men, make sure to explore this resource.
Summary:
Being a mother involves more than just handling day-to-day parenting tasks; it encompasses engaging with broader societal issues that directly impact our children’s futures. Mothers should not be shushed when discussing political topics. These are crucial parenting issues that deserve our attention and advocacy.