Key facts
- The documentary 'No Country for Mothers' aims to unite mothers across the US to advocate for paid leave and childcare funding.
- Executive producer Reshma Saujani intentionally chose community screenings over streaming or festivals to foster collective action.
- The film highlights decades of policy failures and features women from across the political spectrum.
- President Trump has stated that federal funding for childcare is not feasible.
- Minnesota state senator Alice Mann noted the political challenges in passing paid leave legislation.
A new documentary, 'No Country for Mothers,' executive produced by Reshma Saujani, is being screened nationwide by mothers themselves to foster collective action on issues of inadequate support, childcare, and paid leave.
Saujani, founder of Moms First and Girls Who Code, intentionally bypassed traditional release platforms to encourage communal viewing and inspire mothers to unite against what she describes as intentional division through culture wars. The film argues that mothers are often isolated in their struggles, and by coming together, they can push back against political and societal forces that hinder progress on family-friendly policies.
The documentary traces decades of policy failures, featuring women from diverse political backgrounds. Notably, Hillary Clinton points out a presidential veto of a childcare bill in the 1970s. President Donald Trump is quoted stating that federal funding for childcare is not feasible, suggesting states should bear the responsibility. Saujani herself is shown questioning Trump on the issue, with her reaction to his response described as him having "no fucking clue how to answer that question."
Saujani emphasized that the film aims to bridge political divides, intentionally showing up in spaces like Turning Point USA summits and engaging with audiences who may hold different political views. She believes that unity on issues like paid leave and universal childcare is the key to overcoming cultural divisions.
Alice Mann, a Minnesota state senator, shared her experience in passing the state's paid leave law, noting the significant effort required and the lack of Republican support. She linked the current backlash against women's rights, such as the overturning of Roe v. Wade, to a potential catalyst for change.
Mothers hosting screenings, like Brittney Walker, Joanna Carolina Berry, and Stephanie Valdez, see the film as an opportunity to discuss often taboo subjects and to build community. They express frustration with the complexity often cited as a barrier to supporting families and advocate for creating tangible support systems, or 'villages,' for mothers.