In a world where professional spaces often overlook the identity of mothers, Tiffany Dufu, President at Tory Burch Foundation, sheds light on the scarcity of recognition for maternal roles in her recent reflection. Having attended numerous women’s conferences and events over the past two decades, Dufu recalls only two occasions where her identity as a mother was meaningfully acknowledged.
The first instance occurred in 2016 at Rent The Runway’s Project Entrepreneur luncheon. Despite being held on a Saturday, the event organizers offered free supervised childcare, allowing Dufu to attend with her children. It was a rare gesture that resonated deeply with her, demonstrating a tangible commitment to inclusivity for mothers in professional settings.
The second event that stood out to Dufu was the Moms First Summit, a recent gathering that prioritized discussions around the labor and contributions of mothers in society. From panels discussing the portrayal of motherhood in media to conversations about policies supporting parental leave, the summit provided a platform to amplify the voices of mothers and advocate for meaningful change. Dufu expresses her gratitude to the summit’s organizer, Reshma Saujani, for her visionary leadership in launching this movement.
One notable aspect of the Moms First Summit was its collaboration with Forbes, spearheaded by two Indian women, Reshma Saujani and Maneet Ahuja. This collaboration underscored the importance of diverse perspectives in driving conversations around motherhood and professional advancement. Dufu acknowledges the significance of this partnership and the impact it can have in advancing the cause of mothers in professional spaces.
As a Board Member of Moms First, Dufu is eager to see the organization’s continued efforts to empower mothers and advocate for systemic change. The summit served as a catalyst for action, inspiring attendees to work towards transforming corporate America, policy arenas, and cultural norms to create environments where mothers can thrive both personally and professionally.
Dufu’s reflections serve as a powerful reminder of the need to recognize and empower mothers in professional spaces. By acknowledging the invaluable contributions of mothers and advocating for inclusive policies and cultures, we can create a more equitable and supportive environment for all individuals, regardless of their parental status. The Moms First Summit stands as a testament to the importance of amplifying the voices of mothers and working towards a more inclusive future for all.