As a former broadcast journalist, communicator, business professional and working mom, you could say I’m accustomed to wearing a variety of hats. I know what it is like to juggle the demands of the workplace and my family.
It is single-handedly the most challenging experience of my life.
For most moms, the challenges do not stop there. Today, many moms are juggling with the demands of the workplace, their families and grappling with a nationwide formula shortage that is preventing her from feeding her baby. They may be unable to sleep at night because they live in childcare deserts where childcare is not available or is too expensive to be a realistic option.
When women can’t work, entire communities suffer. The McKinsey Global Institute found that Kansas could grow its economy by 10%-15% by 2025 if women’s participation in the state’s workforce increased.
Additionally, the latest Status of Women in Kansas Report from the nonpartisan, nonprofit organization United WE revealed many gaps that we have yet to close. The report found infant care costs more than in-state tuition in Kansas, and childcare consumes an average of 30% of Kansas women’s earnings. That is one of the highest percentages in the U.S.!
Access to childcare is just one persistent barrier for women who want to work. It is overwhelming and enmeshed in the policies that shape our workforce. Women and families everywhere are desperate for change and are looking for solutions.
Now imagine that the working mom from earlier is your wife, daughter, granddaughter, neighbor, friend or employee. We can all agree there are structural barriers that have to change. Let’s make this world better. Let’s make our state better.
In my role at the Kansas Chamber, we stay at the forefront of issues facing Kansas businesses. Frankly, the economic health of Kansas is my business. So, what can be done to help women and families for the economic benefit of our state?
A first step is to share your story and your voice. I’m proud to be part of a Kansas Women’s Economic Development Task Force formed by United WE to study issues related to women’s participation and advancement in the workforce.
We are hosting a Town Hall Series across Kansas this summer to hear firsthand the personal stories from women and families throughout the state on the barriers they face. The stories we hear will be combined into a comprehensive report and used to create bipartisan policy reform for all Kansas women.
The town halls are open to all women and allies. The first Town Hall is from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 23 at The Beacon in Topeka. Complimentary lunch, free professional childcare, and a $10 gift card for all participants will be provided.
Women also can participate in a statewide virtual town hall that will be from noon to 1 p.m. on Aug. 24. This is a chance to be heard. This is an opportunity to impact real, meaningful change for generations to come.
I often think about the legacy I’d like to leave in the great state of Kansas. The legacy I want to leave for my family. Let’s look to the future and build a world that we want our daughters, granddaughters, families and all young women to live and economically thrive in.
Together, we can unite for business. Unite for women and families. Unite for change.
Sherriene Jones-Sontag is the vice president of communications at the Kansas Chamber and the proud mom of a 14-year daughter.
