MOMNetwork, LLC Announces New Resources To Support Muslim And Minority Mothers And Children

MOMNetwork, LLC is announcing new resources to support minority mothers, specifically Muslim mothers and their children. The social enterprise’s mission is to develop a community in which mothers receive the tools and support needed to be advocates for themselves and their families, and provide a forum in which women can take an active role in protecting their well-being and happiness.

During COVID, minority families have been hit hard, and MOMNetwork has ramped up programming to fill the gap of support. Founder and CEO Shellie McKinney says the group is currently raising awareness around getting the day off on EID Al Fitr, the festival of breaking the fast on May 13, a Muslim holiday following the 30 days of Ramadan.

The organization is advocating for public schools in Fairfax County, VA, to add 4 Muslim, Jewish, and Hindu holidays. The Fairfax County School Board recently declined the additions on the 2021-22 calendar. However, students can have the day off as an approved absence.

“Parents have reached out to us to share concerns regarding SOLs still being scheduled on EID, or students feeling uncomfortable with taking the day off since school is in session,” McKinney says, “Neighboring school districts have closed for the day, and we just hope Fairfax County will do the same.”

MOMNetwork is presently carrying out several initiatives, including MOMRIse, a push to engage the community around the topics of social and racial inequalities. They also conduct the Annual Honoring Role Models event, the signature event to honor a diverse group of mothers who’ve distinguished themselves in areas such as business, youth development, community involvement, outreach, and medicine.

The organization also supports minority students. “Our goal is to meet the youth where they are,” McKinney says, “Together, we are advocating, supporting, and developing our high school students to become great leaders.”