In an October 2021 communication to then-House Speaker Rep. Nancy Pelosi and Sen. Chuck Schumer, Meghan expressed her stance on mandatory paid parental leave in the United States. She recounted the bittersweet emotions of being "overjoyed" yet "overwhelmed" upon the birth of her daughter during a time when the pandemic was still disrupting the normal operations of hospitals, schools, and other institutions.

Meghan's Insights on Parental Leave during the Pandemic

Emotional Turmoil and New Realities

During those early days, Meghan found herself in a unique situation. The pandemic had cast a shadow over everything, and the birth of her daughter brought a mix of joy and uncertainty. As she described, "We weren't faced with the typical choices of either staying with our baby during those crucial months or rushing back to work. It was a different reality altogether." This new normal forced families to reevaluate their priorities and consider the importance of being present during such a significant time.There was a sense of relief in knowing that they could take their baby home and focus solely on their family during that vital stage. It was a time when they could devote all their attention and resources to their children, without the added stress of having to make difficult decisions about childcare, work, and medical care. This experience made Meghan realize the significance of having a comprehensive paid leave plan that would alleviate the burden on families.

The Need for a Comprehensive Paid Leave Plan

Meghan emphasized that no family should have to face the agonizing choice between earning a living and taking care of their loved ones. In her words, "It's unfair that so many families have to make these impossible decisions every single day. A comprehensive paid leave plan would provide the freedom and support that families need during these critical times." Such a plan would not only benefit parents but also have a positive impact on society as a whole. It would allow families to bond with their children without the fear of financial hardship and enable them to provide the best care possible.By having a paid leave policy in place, businesses would also benefit. Employees would be more likely to return to work feeling refreshed and committed, leading to increased productivity and job satisfaction. It would create a more balanced work-life environment and promote the well-being of both employees and their families. Meghan's story serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing this issue and providing families with the support they deserve.