Mother's Day Edition | Motherhood in Different Cultures: A Beautiful Global Perspective 🌸 🌍👨🏾‍👩🏾‍👧🏾‍👧🏾

Abigail Daniel
May 11
2 min read

Updated: Jun 9

Motherhood is a universal experience, yet how it’s celebrated, supported, and lived out can look beautifully different around the world. From sacred rituals to everyday routines, cultures shape how mothers are honored, how they raise children, and the community that surrounds them. On this Mother's Day weekend , we take a journey across continents to explore the richness and diversity of motherhood across cultures, reminding us that while love is the common thread, expression varies wonderfully.

🇪🇹 Ethiopia: Community-Centered Care and Deep Respect

In Ethiopian culture, motherhood is a revered role. New mothers often receive strong support from extended family, especially in the traditional 40-day postpartum period called "Argo", during which the mother rests while others care for her and the baby. Mothers are seen as the moral center of the home, with deep cultural respect embedded in day-to-day language and rituals.

🇯🇵 Japan: Harmony, Sacrifice, and Dedication

Japanese mothers are often praised for their dedication and the concept of “gaman”—enduring hardship with grace. Mothers typically take the lead in early childhood education and instill values like respect, patience, and order. Celebrated on the second Sunday of May, Mother’s Day (Haha no Hi) involves red carnations and home-cooked meals to show appreciation.

🇲🇽 Mexico: Matriarchal Strength and Celebration

In Mexico, Mother’s Day (Día de las Madres) is a major event. Held on May 10th, it’s celebrated with serenades, flowers, and big family gatherings. Mexican culture deeply values the matriarch as the emotional backbone of the family—mothers and grandmothers often guide decisions, traditions, and caregiving roles.

🇳🇬 Nigeria: A Blend of Tradition and Spirituality

Motherhood in Nigeria is rich with cultural nuance. In many ethnic groups, the role of the mother is both spiritual and practical. She is a nurturer, disciplinarian, and teacher. Celebrations vary, but in Christian communities, Mothering Sunday is widely recognized with church services and family feasts. Motherhood is a symbol of resilience and honor, especially in rural settings.

🇸🇪 Sweden: Gender Equality and Shared Parenting

In Sweden, motherhood is supported by some of the world’s most progressive family policies, including generous parental leave for both parents. There's a strong emphasis on shared parenting, with fathers expected to be equally involved. This balance fosters a model of motherhood rooted in empowerment and wellbeing rather than self-sacrifice.

💫 Different Paths, Same Heart

Across borders and belief systems, one thing remains clear: motherhood is powerful, sacred, and deeply human. Whether through rituals, language, or laws, each culture offers its own version of honoring the women who shape the next generation. In embracing these global perspectives, we not only celebrate our own mothers—but deepen our appreciation for the universal strength of motherhood.

I wish everyone a serene and joyful Mother's Day! Please share below what you are doing with your family this Mother's Day weekend. Below are few photos of how I spend mine with my mom.

My Mother's Day Highlights