The Center for American Progress Action Fund, a progressive advocacy organization, released a report that says Michigan has some work to do when it comes to policies that help women. Access to paid sick days, paid family leave, and affordable child care are among the areas it says need some work.
According to the report, 66% of Michigan mothers are the sole, primary, or co-breadwinners in their families, higher than the national rate.
Sarah Jane Glynn is the director for women’s economic policy at the Center for American Progress. She says Michigan is a mixed bag when it comes to workplace policies for women.
“Michigan is ahead of the curve of economic contributions to their families, but the state falls a little behind on different measures,” Glynn said. “For example, 47% of workers don’t have access to paid sick days, which is higher than the national average.”
The group is hosting a summit today in Mackinac City, along with Engage Michigan and Economic Justice Alliance of Michigan. It will be held at the Mackinaw Bridge City Vista Beach Hotel and Convention Center.
The event will feature Wendy Davis, former Texas state Senator and gubernatorial candidate, and Gretchen Whitmer, former Michigan state Senate Democratic leader.
“A plan to move forward an economic security agenda for women and families must be included in the discussion about how we drive our economy forward in Michigan. The summit is an opportunity to make sure that our issues are part of that conversation,” Danielle Atkinson, director of Mothering Justice said in a press release.
