Workplace Inequalities and Parenthood
Award-winning actress America Ferrera has drawn attention to the disparities she observed in the workplace after becoming a parent, emphasizing that she encountered a new level of imbalance in her life.
The 39-year-old actress, known for her role in Greta Gerwig’s upcoming Barbie movie, has been recognized as Glamour’s Women Of The Year 2023 global honouree and has received the UK impact award.
In a recent interview with Emily Maddick for Glamour UK, the Ugly Betty star shared her thoughts on sexism within the workplace, shedding light on her experiences in the film industry after becoming a mother.
Ferrera expressed that her perspective on the workplace shifted dramatically since becoming a parent to her five-year-old son and three-year-old daughter.
She noted that she began to perceive new forms of inequality in her professional life.
Challenges Faced by Working Mothers
Ferrera underlined the inequalities that often place the burden of parenting, especially in terms of caregiving and related responsibilities, squarely on women’s shoulders.
She highlighted the disproportionate costs incurred by mothers, both in terms of financial burdens and career-related setbacks.
The actress also discussed the cultural expectations that society places on women, expectations that are often internalized and adhered to, sometimes at great personal cost.
The challenges faced by working mothers, as Ferrera mentioned, are real and multifaceted.
They must make difficult choices that can impact their financial well-being, mental health, physical health, and overall quality of life.
The actress believes that both our cultural norms and policies need to evolve to better support working mothers and create a more equitable environment.
Fighting Injustice and Striving for Change
Ferrera’s commitment to advocating for equality and social change is evident in her history of campaigning for former United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and her dedication to addressing inequality in her own life.
She shared that she has been