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We’ve got some serious work ahead of us if we want to support American families.

The marathon election cycle has finally drawn to a close. No matter your feelings—whether you’re celebrating, sulking, anxious, furious, optimistic, or just relieved to escape endless political ads—one fact remains: there’s a mountain of work to tackle. Issues affecting families don’t just vanish; they evolve. It’s not enough to throw around catchphrases like “family values” or “work-life balance” while the reality is that too many American families are merely surviving, not thriving.

The election may be done, but our mission continues. Fighting for equality, justice, and safety is an ongoing endeavor. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get to it! Here are some critical areas where we can start making a difference:

We Need Paid Family Leave, and We Need It Yesterday

It’s no secret that America’s maternity leave laws are stuck in the past. The Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 (FMLA) allows new parents to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave—but only if they meet specific criteria, like working for their employer for over a year and clocking in 1,250 hours. That’s not the whole story either; this law applies only to companies with 50 or more employees, which leaves many families high and dry. Since the FMLA doesn’t mandate paid leave, it’s hardly a lifeline for those who need it most. In fact, the U.S. stands alone among 41 nations with no paid leave for new parents, and that’s a serious problem. Some experts, like Dr. Lucy Ramirez, a pediatrician, argue that we should extend the leave to at least six months for optimal bonding and care.

Equal Work Deserves Equal Pay

The wage gap between men and women is a glaring issue. According to the National Association for Fair Pay, women earn approximately 23% less than men for the same work. And for women of color, it’s even worse. Rationalizing these disparities won’t get us anywhere. The reality is clear: we need to bridge this gap. Nearly half of all two-parent households rely on both parents working full-time, and in 40% of families with kids, mothers are the primary breadwinners. If moms are underpaid, families are underpaid. Fixing this requires collective action—individuals, families, employers, and lawmakers all need to chip in. Women should feel empowered to negotiate salaries, and men should do their fair share at home. Employers must also ensure equitable pay and consider policies for paid family leave. Legislative measures like the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009 are a step in the right direction, but we need more reforms, like raising the minimum wage and broadening the Equal Rights Amendment.

Childcare Shouldn’t Cost as Much as a College Education

A report from The Care Index reveals that in 33 states, the cost of infant care outstrips college tuition—$9,589 a year for daycare versus $9,410 for college! That’s downright shocking. Many families find themselves in a tight spot, as opting out of the workforce to raise kids can lead to a financial hit worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. Solutions such as subsidized childcare, tax credits, paid family leave, and accessible public education can help ease the burden.

Healthcare Is Not a Luxury; It’s a Basic Human Right

While we’ve made strides in healthcare, there’s still a long way to go. Millions lack health insurance, and many struggle with high deductibles. Postpartum care often gets neglected, and insurance companies seem to prioritize profits over patients. We must do better—lives literally depend on it.

We Need to Build Bridges

Our nation is hurting and divided, and we need to mend those wounds with compassion and understanding. Racism, misogyny, and bigotry are deeply entrenched in our society, and they won’t heal on their own. Sometimes, just a quick scroll through the news can send us into a tailspin of despair. But change won’t happen by sitting on the sidelines.

Even though the challenges seem monumental, we can take small, meaningful actions every day to create a better world. While we may not solve all of society’s issues overnight, every little bit counts when it comes to fostering tolerance, kindness, and love.

The journey towards improving our country is a continuous one. It doesn’t stop with an election or a single candidate; family and women’s rights issues persist. There are no quick fixes or easy answers. This work is tough, but it’s vital—and I believe we’re ready for the challenge.

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In summary, we’ve got a lot to tackle if we want to support American families effectively. From advocating for paid family leave to pushing for equal pay, affordable childcare, accessible healthcare, and fostering unity, the work is ongoing—and it’s up to us to get it done.