Boston Summit Highlights Challenges of Working Mothers

BOSTON — At the inaugural Working Mothers Summit held at the Newbury Hotel, host Shirley Leung recorded a special episode of the “Say More” podcast this week, featuring Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and Attorney General Andrea Campbell. The event celebrated the realities and challenges faced by working mothers, offering a platform for advocacy and discussion.

During her conversation with Mayor Wu, who was accompanied by her two-month-old baby Mira, the mayor emphasized the importance of breaking down barriers for working parents. “Some of it was an intentional decision, and some of it was, as is often the case with working parents, just ‘you’re gonna do what you have to do,'” Wu said. She reflected on the lack of options available for parents in City Hall when she served on the city council, noting that daycare did not begin until children were four to six months old.

Leung highlighted the notable moment during their discussion when Wu nursed Mira, prompting a strong reaction from the audience. Wu has remained steadfast in her commitment to work while parenting, stating, “I am incredibly privileged and blessed to have the flexibility to make choices. We need to change policies for every single working parent to have those choices.”

Wu’s reflections also included the challenges she faced as the first city councilor to have a baby and her efforts to implement paid parental leave in Boston. “Ten years ago, there was no guarantee of paid parental leave. I was proud to write that ordinance, which ensures city workers have that ability now,” she said. Wu has fought for guaranteed paid leave for police officers and teachers, aiming to support parents effectively.

Attorney General Andrea Campbell joined the conversation, advocating for accountability from social media companies regarding the mental health of young users. “The uptick in depression and anxiety among children using these platforms is alarming. These companies must be held accountable for the harms they cause,” Campbell asserted, as she discussed her office’s efforts to sue platforms like TikTok and Meta.

Both leaders addressed the balance of career and family life, illustrating the ongoing struggles faced by working parents. “I try to do school pickup at least once or twice a week,” Wu shared, noting that balancing her duties as mayor with family time often proves to be a complex process.

The importance of communication and setting realistic expectations with their children was covered in their dialogue. Wu acknowledged the constant guilt working parents feel, stating, “There’s always a layer of constant guilt. Am I doing my job to my fullest? Am I taking care of the kids to the fullest?”

As the event wrapped up, the discussion highlighted not only the challenges of being a working mother but also the need for systemic change to support families. Both Wu and Campbell shared their hopes for a future where women do not have to compromise their professional aspirations for their roles as mothers.