I was recently introduced to MomsRising, a grassroots organization modeled after the MoveOn.org organizing model (and co-founded by Joan Blades, co-founder of MoveOn.org). MomsRising offers easy entry into citizen advocacy - emphasizing the power of more than one.

The intent of MomsRising is to engage millions of women and other caregivers, to educate the public about the problems facing mothers and families, and to provide avenues for civic engagement and common-sense solutions to shared issues.

The core issues that guide the movement are taken directly from the book, The Motherhood Manifesto; What America’s Moms Want - and What To Do About It, by Joan Blades and Kristin Rowe-Finkbeiner - which is also available on DVD.

M - Maternity/Paternity Leave: Paid family leave for all parents after a new child comes into the family.

O - Open Flexible Work: Give parents the ability to structure their work hours and careers in a way that allows them to meet both business and family needs. This includes flexible work hours and locations, part-time work options, as well as the ability to move in and out of the labor force to raise young children without penalties.

T - TV We Choose and Other After-School Programs: Give families safe, educational opportunities for children after the school doors close for the day, including: Create a clear and independent universal television rating system for parents with technology that allows them to choose what is showing in their own homes; support quality educational programming for kids; increase access to, and funding, for after school programs.

H - Healthcare for All Kids: Provide quality, universal healthcare to all children.

E - Excellent Childcare: Quality, affordable childcare should be available to all parents who need it. Childcare providers should be paid at least a living wage and healthcare benefits.

R - Realistic and Fair Wages: Two full-time working parents should be able to earn enough to adequately care for their family. In addition, working mothers must receive equal pay for equal work.

S- Sick Days, Paid: All people should have access to paid sick days.

I haven’t read the book or watched the video (it’s on my to do list) but I hope it addresses the multi-million dollar question: Can America afford to provide all of the above?

The answer is simple, America can’t afford not to.