In comparison with other economically advanced nations, the social safety net in the United States is lacking key programs like sick leave, vacation time, and healthcare. Jessica Calarco, an associate professor of sociology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, sheds light on how American women have historically stepped in to make up for these gaps, often at the expense of their own well-being and that of their families. Calarco, who specializes in studying inequalities in family life and education, recently published a book titled “Holding It Together: How Women Became America’s Safety Net.”
According to the National Partnership for Women & Families, over two-thirds of the unpaid caregiving work in the U.S. is carried out by women, amounting to an estimated $1 trillion annually. In an interview, Calarco explains how women in the U.S. bear the brunt of high daycare costs, limited government aid, and inaccessible paid maternal leave, particularly exacerbated by the challenges brought on by the pandemic and beyond.
Calarco’s book delves into how the U.S. has relied on individual responsibility rather than robust social safety nets to manage risk, leading to a disproportionate burden on women to fill in the gaps. Women have historically been default caregivers for children, the elderly, and those in need, while also disproportionately holding lower-wage jobs in various sectors such as childcare, healthcare, and education. This imbalance not only impacts women’s well-being and economic equality but also perpetuates exploitation and stress within families.
Historically, during World War II, women were vital in the workforce due to the absence of men fighting in the war. While efforts were made to establish universal childcare programs, post-war economic restructuring pushed many women back into traditional caregiving roles, unlike peer countries like France that invested in permanent childcare solutions to support women’s continued participation in the economy.
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the significant impact on mothers who were often thrust into caregiving responsibilities while juggling remote work and other household obligations. The shift to remote work presented challenges for working mothers, albeit offering some flexibility, they encountered biases and penalties, as they were disproportionately assumed to use remote work for childcare purposes. This further perpetuated disparities and hindered their career advancement opportunities.
Despite the challenges faced by women in the workforce, particularly amplified during the pandemic, the crucial role they play in supporting families and communities remains undeniable. Calarco’s research emphasizes the necessity of systemic changes to alleviate the disproportionate burden placed on women and ensure a more equitable and supportive environment for all.
