In the run-up to the US election, making it easier for mothers to vote is becoming a hot topic. Many states have launched initiatives that offer free childcare or childcare reimbursement, to help parents participate in the election process without having to worry about childcare.

One notable initiative is the Politist campaign, led by famous athlete Allyson Felix in partnership with the non-profit organization Chamber of Mothers in North Carolina. The campaign pledges to reimburse families for childcare costs within 2 hours, especially in areas heavily affected by Hurricane Helene. “You don’t have to choose between your career, your passion, and motherhood. In this election, you can do both,” Felix shared, clearly showing the spirit of supporting mothers in participating in the election.

In addition to North Carolina, free child care is also being offered in many other states, including California, Texas, Illinois, New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Georgia, and Alabama. This represents a major public effort to ensure that the cost of child care does not become a barrier to women’s right to vote. According to a 2020 study by the Knight Foundation, about 60% of the 12,000 absentees were women, most of whom were single mothers. These numbers further underscore the need for such initiatives.

In California, Bumo, a child care company, is donating $20,000 for free child care packages in Los Angeles and San Francisco on Election Day, November 5. Meanwhile, child care centers in Los Angeles will also provide free services for children between 3 months and 6 years old throughout Election Day. The Vivvi Center in New York is no exception, offering free childcare packages to families in New York and Westchester.

These initiatives are not only supportive, but also send a strong message that the right to vote belongs to everyone, and that no one should be held back by external factors such as the cost of childcare. Providing free childcare allows mothers to freely participate in elections without having to weigh family obligations against civic responsibilities.

Not only does the participation of mothers in elections contribute to diversity, but it also represents a very important segment of the population. By removing barriers to childcare, these initiatives help ensure that every voter has the opportunity to exercise their right, regardless of their personal circumstances.

Childcare is already a significant burden for many families, and the cost of childcare can be a major reason why many people are unable to vote. In this context, these services are not just a support, but a practical way to promote women’s political participation.

In addition to encouraging mothers to vote, these initiatives also open up an important dialogue about the role of women in politics and the importance of creating a more family-friendly environment. This means that we are not only helping women in a specific moment, but also building a foundation for long-term changes in the way society views the role of parents, especially mothers.

Efforts like the campaign by Allyson Felix and other nonprofits benefit not only mothers, but also the entire community. When a mother can participate in the electoral process without worrying about childcare, it means that she is a member of society exercising her rights and responsibilities as a citizen, contributing to building a more democratic and equitable society.

Finally, through free childcare services, we not only enable mothers to participate in elections, but also emphasize that the right to vote is an important part of building the future for future generations. Ensuring that all voters, especially mothers, have the opportunity to participate in important decisions of the country is the foundation for a strong democracy. These positive changes need to be maintained and developed so that each individual can confidently exercise their rights without worrying about unnecessary barriers.