Greetings!
I wanted to share an article that The Washington City Paper recently published. This article takes a deeper dive into the DC proposed budget for 2025FY. An issue that has been highlighted and is on the chopping block is the DC Pay Equity Fund. This fund subsidizes Early Childhood Educators' pay to be equitable with Public & Charter School Preschool Teachers, provides health care for early childhood educators, and provides funds to obtain higher education. We predict this extreme cut could disrupt childcare centers throughout DC and many skilled educators will be inadequately compensated.
I am reaching out to you—our valued parents and community members—to ask for your immediate support and action. With a limited number of days until the DC Council votes on this proposal, we have a limited window to voice our concerns and advocate for the continuation of the Pay Equity Fund.
Here's how you can make a difference:
Contact your Council Member: We encourage you to reach out directly to your council members to express your strong opposition to the proposed cuts to the Pay Equity Fund. Sharing personal stories and concerns can significantly influence the council's decisions. Your support and partnership are vital as we bring our collective concerns loudly and effectively to the city's attention. Our voices are stronger together, we can safeguard the future of our early childhood!
Under 3 DC & SPACEs are early childhood advocacy groups that are organizing a call to action rally in support of the DC Pay Equity Fund on May 3rd. They are encouraging an outpour of attendance at the Wilson Building rally for early childhood educators to stand in solidarity. Although we at CCPC have not committed to attending there are many early childhood programs that will close or delay on this day.
Our voices are stronger together! Please contact your DC council member today!
Nicole
