Amber Scorah's advocacy for paid parental leave was driven by a deeply personal tragedy. Her infant son Karl died on his very first day of daycare when he was just three months old. Amber had returned to work because she could not get additional time off, highlighting the inadequacy of parental leave policies in the United States. This heartbreaking experience led her to become a vocal advocate for paid parental leave, aiming to prevent other parents from facing similar situations and to ensure they have the option to stay with their newborns during critical early months.
Amber's efforts have included writing a poignant essay in the New York Times, engaging in public speaking, and collecting thousands of signatures on a petition to improve parental leave policies. She has emphasized that adequate paid parental leave is essential for child safety and parent well-being.
For more information, you can refer to her piece in the New York Times and her activism journey described in various articles, including those on LAist and Today.
Here are some relevant images capturing her advocacy: