The steps of the Washington State Capitol became a space for community, conversation, and hope as Voices of Tomorrow joined parents, childcare providers, and advocates for Child Care for Washington Advocacy Day to make sure the voices of those most impacted by the childcare crisis were heard.

From the moment we arrived, a deep sense of purpose filled the air. Parents held their children close, providers stood shoulder to shoulder, and stories of struggle and perseverance were shared. This was not just about policy; it was about people. These are families forced to make impossible choices, providers giving everything to this work, and women dedicating their lives to ensuring that every child gets the early learning foundation they deserve.

Stories That Demand to Be Heard

One of the most powerful moments of the day came when Genevieve Stokes from Child Care Aware Washington shared her journey of navigating Washington’s childcare system. She discussed the financial struggles parents face when trying to afford childcare and how it forces many to leave their jobs. She stated, “Unfortunately, too many parents, including here in the audience, can’t afford quality childcare but don’t qualify for childcare support. Too many parents are making impossible choices, quitting their jobs and careers to care for their children. I’m looking at the women in the audience who have had to try and figure that decision out, but only to find that they can’t manage their family’s finances if they don’t work.”

A provider, Susan Lee, who runs a childcare center, spoke passionately about the challenges childcare providers face. She emphasized her commitment to serving immigrant, refugee, and low-income families and highlighted the financial struggles of running a childcare center. Susan stressed that the state’s Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) subsidy program does not provide enough funding to sustain high-quality early learning programs. She spoke about the sacrifices providers make, often working long hours or taking on additional jobs just to keep their centers running. “Why do we need to continue to be creative and sacrifice our time? Why do teachers continue to need to work a second or third job so that they can continue to provide for their families? That’s not right. Our children deserve better, and so do the educators who dedicate their lives to them.”

These stories are not isolated; they are the reality for thousands of families and providers across the state. And yet, despite the challenges, there was resilience. There was a collective commitment to keep pushing forward, to keep speaking up, and to keep advocating for a system that works for everyone.

Why Voices of Tomorrow Stands in This Fight

At Voices of Tomorrow, our mission has always been to support the communities most impacted by systemic barriers. The childcare crisis disproportionately affects women, especially women of color, immigrant families, and working mothers. This fight is not just about affordability or accessibility; it is about equity, about ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive.

We stand with the parents who refuse to stay silent. We stand with the providers who continue to show up despite the odds. We stand with every advocate who believes that childcare is not a luxury but a necessity.

The Unrecognized Role of Child Care Providers

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, childcare providers played an essential yet often unrecognized role in keeping society running. Genevieve Stokes reminded us that while businesses and schools shut down, childcare centers remained open, making it possible for nurses, doctors, emergency responders, grocery store clerks, and other essential workers to do their jobs. These providers put themselves at risk every day, ensuring that families had the support they needed during a time of crisis. Their commitment and sacrifices deserve far greater recognition and investment.

The day in Olympia was a testament to the power of shared stories and collective voices. While no immediate policies were enacted, the conversations held, and the experiences shared were invaluable in building momentum for change. The fight for affordable, high-quality childcare continues, and the dedication of parents, providers, and advocates remains unwavering.

Coming together reaffirmed our commitment to ensuring every child in Washington gains access to the care and education they deserve. The path forward requires persistence, advocacy, and solidarity because when we speak up, we bring about the change that our families and communities need. As the event came to a close, the voices of children rose in unison on the Capitol steps, leading a powerful chant with the support of the audience:

Advocacy Day Chant 🎤 “Every child, every day, deserves to learn, grow, and play!”

Join us. Speak up. Advocate. Because every child deserves a future.