I came across an exciting book called All in. With compelling interviews with new and old fathers, his personal journey as a parent
and quick stats, Josh Levs makes a persuasive case for the concept of paid paternity leave in the US.
The latest Pew survey reinforces the exigency of Josh Lev’s research and tone. Over 82% of the surveyed said they support paid maternity leave, and over 60% support paid paternity leave. http://pewrsr.ch/2mwtMRiLevs book delves into how gender bias, tax tilts, corporate and governmental inequity come together to keep United States as the only OECD member that offers no statutory entitlement to paid family leave on a national basis.
http://bit.ly/1HEWGw8 What makes ALL IN unique is that it zooms in on fathers who talk about their wishes and ambitions of nurturing children.
In Europe, the debate has zigzagged its way to many innovative solutions. The new reforms in Germany, for example, offer a “partner bonus” concept wherein both parents are encouraged to take leave, implying that childcare can be shared equally between partners. More importantly, the law nudges men, society, and corporations to tackle head-on the taboo of paternity leave. It is not as if men there don’t take a leap of faith, but an outdated law serves as a clap back. An updated one can create role models. It’s always easier to follow suit. The US has bickered for over two decades about the ideological best match. It now needs a federal law to nudge corporations, HR experts, and strategists to be forced to adapt to it. ALL IN and Pew surveys are evidence that the mindset has evolved. Even an imperfect federal law will kickstart the refinement process. It will nudge more and more men and women to opt for paid family leave. The Democrats can take a cue from ALL IN and make paid family leave a platform issue.
