Northeastern University: Petition to Improve Family Leave Benefits

As one of two dads, I'd love to the "paternity leave" section be a little more bold and equitable; it's frustrating to only request 1/4th the paid leave for families without "NU-MOMS." But overall it's a step in the right direction!

I fully support this effort. Adopting all of these provisions would be consistent with NU's "work/life balance" aims, which fall short of the stated goals. Thanks you for initiating this.

I fully support this petition and appreciate your efforts on behalf of our Northeastern families.

As a future Mom (some day!) and as I continue to make plans for my future family, this petition gives me hope that Northeastern will continue to advance and foster processes which will support flexibility and employee retention. Thank you for sharing!

I fully support this petition. I would urge the policy to include paid time for children born by surrogate or children adopted. It's not only about healing. Many daycares will not even take an infant before 6 or 8 weeks, so a parent who did not give birth can't go back to work before then either.

My husband and I are trying to have a child and maternity leave with all its challenges are a huge source of stress.

I fully and wholeheartedly support this petition. I was shocked when I learned about the details of maternity/paternity leave here at NU. I had a child 20 years ago, and the benefits offered at that time far exceed what is offered here at the university today. It is shameful.

This is extremely important and I hope there's a way to include LGBTQ parents in any parental leave changes as well.

Although I am not a mom, I was recently shocked when I read the "benefits," or lack thereof, that are offered to new mothers and fathers at Northeastern. Better parental leave policies will lead to happier, and mentally healthier employees and better retention rates. I fully support this cause!

So glad this is being addressed and I'm happy to help with advocacy efforts if the group is looking for additional support.

I don't work at Northeastern but I just returned to work this week after having my second baby. This cause is vital to supporting families and improving mood and productivity.

About time. Had my first child while working at NU 32 years ago and nothing's changed! In fact it went backward with not offering the 2 weeks before delivery.

I fully support this petition!

Improving benefits for new parents is a very important way for Northeastern to show that the university values its employees. Northeastern should strive to be a leader in this area in the same way that it strives to be a leader in innovation and education.

It's a shame the maternity and parental leave is so poor at NU. I am not a mother, but it pains me to see new mom's struggle so much financially, and with their schedules (both in and outside of work) due to the lack of flexibility. I would love to have my sick days go into a bank for new mom's and those who may be terminally ill to use.

Canada and even Mexico have laws that entitle maternity leave more than what Northeastern gives: http://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2016/09/26/u-s-lacks-mandated-paid-parental-leave/