Arina Kharlamova was enjoying her maternity leave with her two-month-old daughter when an unexpected email turned her world upside down. The message informed her of a layoff affecting 30% of her company's staff, including her. This story is not unique. A recent study reveals that 15% of Canadian moms who gave birth in 2022 and 2023 faced job loss during pregnancy, maternity leave, or upon return to work.
The Harsh Reality for Working Moms
The study, funded by Moms at Work and Hudson Sinclair, surveyed 1,390 Canadian mothers. It found that the involuntary turnover rate for this group is more than three times the national average of 5.1%. Allison Venditti, founder of Moms at Work, highlights the alarming gap, suggesting that motherhood significantly increases the risk of job loss.
Why Are Moms Losing Their Jobs?
- Out of Sight, Out of Mind: Some employers add pregnant women or new moms to layoff lists because they're "out of sight, out of mind."
- Productivity Concerns: Others fear that parenting responsibilities will reduce work efficiency.
- Legal Loopholes: While employers can't lay off workers solely for taking leave, they can terminate them for unrelated reasons, such as company downsizing.
The Aftermath of Job Loss
- Financial Strain: Many moms rely on 55% of their wages through employment insurance, making it difficult to fight back legally.
- Career Setbacks: Upon return, 26% of moms reported reduced earnings, and 25% were denied promotions.
- Workplace Discrimination: 21% were pressured to work during leave, and 29% felt pushed to return early.
The Business Case for Supporting Moms
Beth Wanner, founder of Mother Cover, argues that companies lose valuable employees by not supporting them during and after pregnancy. With replacement costs reaching up to 200% of a salary, treating moms better isn't just ethical—it's smart business.
Call for Government Action
Allison Venditti urges the federal government to reform the employment insurance program, which currently requires 420-700 work hours before leave. Many moms lose eligibility after job loss, leaving them without adequate support.
This report underscores the urgent need for systemic change to protect working mothers in Canada.
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