In the United States, the absence of women in political leadership is glaring, especially when compared to other developed nations. While the world witnesses women ascending to the highest offices, here, the debate continues over whether a woman can hold the presidency. Spoiler alert: Yes, she can!
Countries worldwide are rapidly filling their cabinets and parliaments with female leaders, yet our Congress and Supreme Court remain predominantly male and white. So what gives, America? Women, especially mothers, are incredibly resilient and skilled multitaskers. Why are we still lagging behind in electing women as our political representatives?
Enter Ava Collins, an immigrant from Hungary and a determined single mother who champions women’s empowerment, particularly in politics. Her frustration with the lack of female representation drove her to create a Political Action Committee (PAC) called Moms in Office.
Why Focus Specifically on Mothers?
Because they significantly influence society! Approximately 88% of women in the U.S. become mothers by age 44. Despite this, they hold a disproportionately small number of federal government positions. This imbalance raises many concerns, especially when it comes to critical issues like the wage gap and paid parental leave, which mothers understand best.
However, breaking into politics as a mother of young children is no easy feat. To illustrate, as of early 2020, only 26 congressional seats were occupied by mothers with children under 18, representing just 5% of our legislators. Although the number of women in Congress has reached an all-time high, they still constitute less than a quarter of our legislative body. We need more women who are directly affected by issues such as childcare and parental leave to hold office.
Inspiration and Determination
Ava found inspiration in candidates like Mia Rodriguez, a single mom who triumphantly won her congressional seat in the 2018 mid-term elections. “Mia embodies the change we need,” Ava shared in an interview featured on Home Insemination Kit. “While following her campaign, I recognized the unique challenges mothers face when running for office. It’s tough for women with young kids to fundraise and assure voters they can juggle family and work. Researching the statistics ignited my determination to effect change and ensure women receive the equality they deserve.”
Ava emphasizes the absence of any PAC supporting mothers at the beginning of 2019, which motivated her to establish one to assist progressive mothers at all government levels. Her goal extended beyond fundraising; she aimed to empower mothers and amplify the political voice of all women.
A Vision for Change
Moms in Office seeks out and supports candidates who genuinely understand the everyday struggles of American families. Ava explains, “We’re looking for those who will advocate for working families because they’ve faced the difficult choice between spending time with a newborn or earning a paycheck.”
Imagine a political landscape where elected officials understand the real challenges faced by everyday Americans—especially mothers raising the next generation. Consider electing a passionate mother whose campaign is filled with practical ideas like fair wages, flexible working hours, and comprehensive healthcare for all women.
Ava Collins is already envisioning this change. A single mother who moved to the U.S. at 18 without knowing English is now driving real change. Moms in Office is dedicated to helping women who might otherwise be overlooked due to outdated political norms.
As Ava notes, “70% of mothers today are working, not by choice but necessity.” She advocates for a cultural shift that distributes the responsibility of raising children more equitably. As the 2020 California Mother of the Year, Ava says her mission is for all moms and children to thrive in a better world. “Every mother is a fighter, willing to make sacrifices for our children.”
The Broader Impact
The impact of Moms in Office extends beyond the candidates it supports. Ava hopes to inspire all women to realize their potential to create change. She began this journey while standing at her kitchen counter—not in a fancy office or with millions in funding—but as a mom with a vision.
So, if you find yourself juggling responsibilities at home, remember that you have ideas, passion, and intelligence. Our nation needs your voice. If you’re tired of a political landscape dominated by men making decisions about women’s rights and maternity leave, consider exploring the inspiring stories of moms running for office at Moms in Office and learn how you can support them. Also, check out this informative piece on pregnancy and home insemination for additional insights.
Conclusion
In summary, Ava Collins, through her PAC, Moms in Office, is committed to changing the political landscape by empowering mothers and women to run for office. Her initiative seeks to ensure that women’s voices are heard and that the realities of motherhood are represented in politics.
Keyphrase: Women in Politics
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