Blog by Elizabeth Peterson, 2024-2026 North Atlantic Region Governor from SIA of Connecticut Shoreline,

At the 69th Commission on the Status of Women, the workshop Reimagined Motherhood: A Conversation for Girls, Mothers, and Allies panel discussion facilitated by New York University professor Dr. Donna Cill, offered a profound and necessary discussion on the role of motherhood in society. The conversation emphasised not only the immense value of raising children but also the need to recognise, support, and elevate motherhood in all its forms—whether through birth, adoption, fostering, or family guardianship.  The session underscored a critical truth: motherhood is essential, and it deserves respect, recognition, and institutional support.

The Unseen Labour of Motherhood

Globally, women spend an estimated 16.4 billion hours per day performing unpaid care work, and overall they dedicate 2.5 times more hours than men to childcare and housework, even while working full-time jobs. These staggering numbers highlight an undeniable reality—motherhood, in all its forms, is labour-intensive and often unrecognised. While many women take on the role of primary caregivers with love and dedication, societies and governments have yet to fully acknowledge the immense contributions of mothers. Policies that support maternity leave, paid family leave, and workplace flexibility are not just beneficial for mothers; they are essential for the well-being of entire societies.

At the heart of the discussion was the urgent need for businesses and governments to create policies that genuinely support families. Flexible work hours, remote work opportunities, and on-site childcare are some of the most effective ways companies can empower working mothers. Additionally, fathers must be given the opportunity and encouragement to share in parenting responsibilities, reducing the overwhelming burden placed on mothers alone. When companies and governments prioritise family support, they not only help individual mothers but also strengthen entire communities.

Motherhood Is Enough

A powerful message from the session was that mothers are enough—they do not need to prove their worth beyond the love, care, and guidance they provide to their children. Society often pressures women to balance motherhood with career aspirations, making them feel as though being “just a mom” is not enough. However, motherhood itself is a profound calling, one that shapes future generations and contributes immeasurably to the social fabric.

In many parts of the world, societal expectations surrounding motherhood vary. In some cultures, a woman’s identity is deeply tied to family, and without it, she may feel invisible. Meanwhile, in many first-world countries, women are choosing to have children later in life, often due to career ambitions or economic concerns. Regardless of when or how a woman enters motherhood, the decision to raise children—whether as a biological mother, foster parent, adoptive mother, or grandmother—is a deeply personal and significant one.

Yet, challenges persist. In Sweden, for example, the government taxes women who choose to stay home with their children. This policy, while intended to encourage workforce participation, has had an unintended consequence: an increase in school violence, potentially due to fewer mothers being available during the day. This raises an important question: how can societies balance economic productivity with the undeniable value of maternal presence in a child’s formative years?

Breaking the Cycle: Asking for Help and Changing the Narrative

For many women, asking for help is an act of strength, not weakness. Some mothers feel pressured to be entirely self-sufficient, fearing that seeking support makes them appear inadequate. However, recognising one’s limitations and building a support system is not only beneficial for the mother but also for the child. Grandmothers raising grandchildren, for instance, often seek support from churches, community groups, or local organisations. Providing these women with resources and networks can be transformative.

Moreover, changing the societal narrative around motherhood is crucial. Mothers should not feel stigmatised or undervalued, and when people dismiss or diminish the role of mothers, it should be called out. The commonalities of motherhood across cultures are striking: no matter where they live, mothers seek community, family, and belonging for their children. The African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child,” speaks to the necessity of collective responsibility in raising the next generation. Communities must foster environments where neighbors, extended family, and social institutions all play a role in supporting children’s growth and well-being.

The Purpose and Power of Motherhood

Ultimately, motherhood is a position of purpose—one that deserves honor, not apology. Studies have quantified the monetary value of unpaid mothering labour, but its real worth goes beyond economics. Research shows that hearing a mother’s voice can significantly reduce a child’s anxiety and positively shift brain function. This speaks to the deep emotional and psychological connection between a mother and her child, a bond that cannot be replaced.

Motherhood and career-building years often coincide, making the journey even more complex. However, the question remains: Can anyone mother your children better than you? The answer, for most mothers, is a resolute no. While the logistics of balancing work, personal ambitions, and parenting may be challenging, the privilege of shaping a child’s life is unparalleled.

This conversation at the United Nations reaffirmed the idea that motherhood, in all its forms, is a blessing. It is a calling that should be celebrated, supported, and respected. Whether a mother is dreaming big, redefining her strength, or simply embracing the beauty of being “just a Mum,” her role is irreplaceable. By elevating the status of motherhood, challenging societal norms, and fostering supportive communities, we can create a world where mothers feel empowered, valued, and truly enough.