The Trump administration is reportedly exploring a series of pronatalist policies aimed at increasing the declining U.S. birthrate. Key proposals include offering $5,000 “baby bonuses” in the form of a child tax credit, though these would be limited to married parents… excluding single mothers 🤰🏽
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 64% of Black children are raised in single-parent households, compared to 24% of white children. This policy could disproportionately exclude single Black mothers from receiving support.
Additional ideas under discussion include establishing a National Medal of Motherhood for mothers with more than six children and promoting “natural fertility” through government-funded research to help women track menstrual cycles.
These initiatives are largely supported by conservative groups like the Heritage Foundation. However, critics point out the contradiction in promoting childbirth while simultaneously dismantling women’s health programs, such as closing the CDC’s Division of Reproductive Health and slashing research funding in women’s health due to the administration’s rejection of diversity and inclusion efforts. This paradox raises questions about the administration’s genuine commitment to maternal well-being and gender equity.
🗞️ Vanity Fair
