In the fight for reproductive justice in our communities, this Mama's day we are taking action to ensure that all mothers, despite income, are able to parent with respect and dignity.
Under current California law, parents receiving cash assistance through the CalWORKS program may not receive any additional cash for a child born to that household. This is known as the Maximum Family Grant (MFG) Rule.
The MFG policy is intended to control impoverished parents' choices about the size of their families through the threat of economic hardship. When applied, it punishes newborns by denying necessary aid at a time when it is most important in a child's development.
But you can take action today! At this moment, AB 271 (Mitchell), a bill to repeal the Maximum Family Grant rule, is in suspense in the Assembly Appropriations committee. It is critical that this bill move off of suspense and move to the floor for a vote.
Please take action TODAY! Here are some ways to participate in this Mama's Day campaign:
Feel free to copy and paste the below sample messages on this easy to use Mama's day site. For Assemblymember email addresses click here.
Sample card language:
All mothers want their children to live happy and healthy lives. Vote yes on AB271 to support low-income mamas! #MamasDay
Like all mamas, low-income mothers deserve to make the healthiest [reproductive] decisions for themselves and their families. Vote yes on AB271! Repeal MFG! #MamasDay
Like all mamas, low-income mothers deserve to raise their children with dignity and respect. Vote yes on AB271! Repeal MFG! #MamasDay
All families matter. Don't balance the budget on the backs of poor families. This Mother's Day support AB271 and repeal MFG. #MamasDay
2) Tweet your card to the appropriations committee! And participate in the Mama's Day Tweet Chat: Thursday May 9th 10am Pacific/ 1pm Eastern.
Sample Tweets:
.@MikeGatto Please don't punish poor families. Support AB271 and repeal MFG. We need your support! #MamasDay
.@MikeGatto Don't balance the budget on the backs of poor families. This #MamasDay Support AB271 and repeal MFG
.@MikeGatto Please protect, don't punish poor families. This #MamasDay give CA Mamas what they really need, support! Vote yes on AB 271!
.@MikeGatto This #MamasDay Give CA Mama's the support and dignity they deserve by repealing the MFG rule. Vote yes on AB 271!
3) Share your card on your legislator's facebook page!
This Mama's day, let our legislators know that all mothers deserve to parent with respect and dignity. As a proud partner of Strong Families, we are committed to ensuring that all families have the rights, recognition, and resources we need to thrive.
Thank you in advance for helping move these words and images. If you have any questions, or need any other tools or information, please get in touch with us.
Happy Mama's Day,
Sierra Harris.
Assistant Director
