Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate the extraordinary women who have made a profound impact on our lives. For many of us, the term ‘mother’ may suggest a specific image – a biological mother or a mother who has been present in our lives from birth. But the reality is that motherhood comes in many different forms, and there are countless ways to be a loving, nurturing, and supportive parent. From single moms to same-sex couples, from transgender mothers to dads who play the role of ‘mom,’ the diversity of motherhood is something to be celebrated and cherished. It is important to recognize that the love, care, and sacrifice that come with being a parent transcend biology, gender, and family structure. Every mother has a unique story to tell, and each story deserves to be heard and celebrated.
Through the remarkable story of Gauri Sawant, a transgender activist whom I had the privilege to personally interact with, a profound shift in perspective emerged – one that reaffirmed my personal beliefs and challenged the confines of gender in the realm of parenthood. It became abundantly clear that the essence of motherhood surpasses traditional gender roles, embodying a boundless love and selfless care for others. Gauri’s journey eloquently unveiled the truth that being a mom defies all boundaries and is instead defined by an unwavering dedication and compassionate spirit towards those we cherish. Her account of motherhood has since lingered in my mind, resonating with the deepest corners of my being.
As we navigate a rapidly evolving world, our comprehension of parenthood and family dynamics continues to broaden, encompassing a diverse range of identities and experiences. It is imperative that we redefine the concept of family, embracing and uplifting the inherent value found within various parenting journeys. This redefinition extends beyond personal domains and holds significant relevance within professional spheres, as workplaces must acknowledge and actively support this evolving reality.
Mothers make significant contributions not only within the family but also in the workplace and society, and it is crucial to recognize and appreciate their efforts. They are often the unsung heroes who tirelessly juggle multiple roles and responsibilities, all while nurturing and raising the next generation. As a leader and a mother, myself, I understand the challenges that working mothers face in terms of career advancement. I firmly believe in fostering an inclusive workplace that celebrates diversity and honors the journeys of every individual. It is our responsibility to create a safe and supportive environment where all parents, regardless of their gender identity, can thrive personally and professionally. By implementing inclusive policies, offering targeted support, and promoting education and awareness, we can break down barriers and empower parents of all identities, to bring their whole selves to work, knowing they are valued, respected, and celebrated for the remarkable parents they are.
What are some ways to create an inclusive workplace that values every mother equally?
Creating an inclusive workplace that recognizes and supports all mothers requires a multifaceted approach. Here are some strategies that can help:
Offer flexible work arrangements: Flexible work options, such as remote work or flexible schedules, can benefit all parents, including transgender moms and parents in same-sex relationships. Employers should be willing to accommodate different needs and work with employees to find a solution that works for everyone. This can help reduce stress and increase productivity, and it sends a message that the company values and supports working mothers.
Ensure fair and equal treatment: It is essential to ensure that all employees, including mothers, are treated fairly and equally in terms of pay, promotions, and job opportunities. This includes having clear policies and procedures in place to prevent discrimination based on gender, pregnancy, or caregiving responsibilities.
Provide access to family-friendly benefits: Employers should offer benefits that support all parents, such as parental leave, adoption assistance, and fertility treatments. These benefits should be inclusive and available to all employees, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation.
Foster a culture of respect and inclusion: Creating a workplace culture that values diversity and inclusion can help all employees feel respected and supported. This includes promoting open communication, providing opportunities for feedback and collaboration, and encouraging work-life balance.
Ensure that policies and practices are inclusive: Employers should review their policies and practices to ensure they are inclusive of all parents. For example, parental leave policies should be gender-neutral and allow for time off for parents in same-sex relationships, single dads, and transgender mothers.
Educate all employees on the importance of inclusivity: This can be achieved through training sessions, workshops, and communication campaigns. Employees need to understand that families come in all shapes and sizes and that everyone deserves to be treated with respect and dignity.
If you are genuinely committed to driving change, this could serve as a promising starting point.
As an organization, we understand the significance of nurturing and supporting our employees in their personal and professional journeys. Mother’s Day serves as a poignant reminder of the versatile roles individuals play, particularly in the context of parenthood. We also recognize that mothers, regardless of their titles or societal norms, bring invaluable strengths and perspectives to our workplace and that their resilience, determination, and unwavering dedication to both their families and their careers remain unmatched. Therefore, we strive to create an inclusive environment that acknowledges the unique challenges and joys that mothers experience, providing them with the support they need to flourish both at home and within our organization. This is reflected in our daily culture, policies, and practices.
Godrej Capital is all about dismantling gender roles and embracing the diverse nature of motherhood. Our inclusive policies reflect our unwavering commitment to supporting all types of parents, irrespective of gender. With our Creche benefit policy, we recognize that both mothers and fathers share equal responsibility in childcare. Furthermore, our groundbreaking 6-month maternity leave policy showcased our dedication to providing ample time and support for mothers during this crucial phase of their lives. Even before that became a legal requirement, we went the extra mile to demonstrate our steadfast support for mothers. Additionally, our adoption service reflects our belief that there are no limitations based on gender when it comes to providing a loving home to children. At Godrej Capital, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and nurturing environment where all types of mothers are celebrated and supported.
I call on other organizations to adopt a similar inclusive approach that accommodates the diverse needs of all employees. Creating a work environment that acknowledges the distinctive demands and rewards of motherhood can lead to a culture that encourages the progress, advancement, and flourishing of working mothers.
As American business executive Susan Wojcicki once said, “Working mothers are pioneers, breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations of parents in the corporate world.”
Let us continue to honor and support these pioneers, not just on Mother’s Day, but every day, as we work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable world for all.
You can also read one of my earlier blogs on the occasion of Mother’s Day here – A mother’s way on Mother’s Day
Ruhie Pande 