Yawata Mayor Shoko Kawata Announces Historic Maternity Leave
Shoko Kawata, the 35‑year‑old mayor of Yawata, Japan, announced she will take a four‑month maternity leave, becoming the first Japanese mayor to do so. The decision sparked a notable public reaction across the country. Kawata said she loves her job and is proud to be taking time off to have a baby. According to birthbabe.com, she will be on leave for four months, covering the period around her
Shoko Kawata, the 35‑year‑old mayor of Yawata, Japan, announced she will take a maternity leave, becoming the first Japanese mayor to do so. The announcement generated a notable public reaction in Japan.
According to birthbabe.com, Kawata will be on maternity leave for four months, covering the period on either side of her due date, and a deputy will stand in for her during that time. The BBC reported that Kawata said she loves her job and is proud to be taking time off to have a baby.
Public response varied: some men expressed anger, some people praised the decision as a positive example for women, and others criticized the decision as irresponsible and suggested alternative actions.
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