Child care has always relied on the underpaid and undervalued labor of Black and brown women, and the child care crisis will not be solved without our voices in creating an equitable child care system.
Every single one of us counts on child care. In a fully funded system, families will have time to rest, be together, and live full and vibrant lives. Taking good care of our children and each other makes our communities richer. Creating a child care system that works–for everyone–is essential to our families, children, providers, and economy.
Childcare is the bedrock of our communities, woven into the fabric of our daily lives. For generations, parents, caregivers, and childcare professionals have formed a powerful network of support, nurturing our youngest members. This isn’t a new concept—we’re not reinventing the wheel; we’re recognizing and reinforcing the spokes that have always been there.
But childcare isn’t just about watching kids – it’s about supporting whole families and fostering child development. A holistic approach recognizes that children don’t exist in isolation. Their well-being is intertwined with their family’s economic stability, housing security, and access to healthcare.
When we treat childcare as essential as roads and bridges, we invest in our collective future. We create a society where the work of caring is respected, where families have the support they need, and where every child has the opportunity to flourish. This is how we build stronger communities – by recognizing and reinforcing the care that’s always been at our core.
Here’s the truth:
- Child care is an economic issue. When child care is unstable, businesses suffer, workers struggle, and the economy slows down.
- Child care providers are *essential workers*. They educate, nurture, and make it possible for millions of parents to work.
- The cost of child care is often the second biggest expense after housing. For many, it forces tough choices–keep working or sacrifice income for care.
Tell Congress to Act Today!