The National Women’s Law Center fights for gender justice—in the courts, in public policy, and in our society.
Millions of parents across the country work in jobs where low wages, unfair scheduling practices, and minimal benefits make it difficult to meet both work and caregiving responsibilities. And the parents most likely to find themselves in low-wage jobs are women — disproportionately women of color and immigrant women. All too often, despite their best efforts, parents’ low wages and work conditions create unimaginable stress for their families and undermine their children’s chances for success in school and beyond.
Report
Stepping Up: New Policies and Strategies Supporting Parents in Low-Wage Jobs and Their Children
Report
Collateral Damage: Scheduling Challenges for Workers in Low-Wage Jobs and Their Consequences
Report
Strategies for Supporting Family, Friend, and Neighbor Care Providers
State by State Map
Mothers of Very Young Children in Low-Wage Occupations
Dig Deeper on Key Issues
Pregnancy, Parenting & the Workplace
No pregnant woman should have to choose between her health and her family’s economic security — but that’s exactly the choice some are forced to make. Pregnant women deserve fair treatment on the job.
Minimum Wage
Nearly two-thirds of minimum wage workers in the United States are women ― and the minimum wage falls far short of what it takes to live above the poverty line.
Child Care
High-quality child care gives children the boost they need to succeed in school and gives parents support to be productive at work — but only if they have access to the care they need.