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Our current childcare system leaves providers vulnerable. As Shop Stewards in their union, CWA Local 1037, Esther Garcia, Janely Rodriguez, and Maria Romero have emerged as champions for in-home childcare providers in New Jersey. Their commitment to fair pay and improved working conditions has not only uplifted their fellow providers but has inspired the broader community to rally for a just childcare system.
Janely, a former kindergarten teacher from the Dominican Republic, reflects on her journey: “When I arrived here 15 years ago, my goal was to take care of children. Children have always been my passion.” This passion turned into action as she faced the challenges of providing quality care in a system that overlooks the needs of dedicated caregivers.
Esther, who also hails from the Dominican Republic, shares her personal story: “When my daughter was born, I found myself without anyone to care for her, so I became a provider. In my community, I was always looking out for the children.” Her experience as a mother and educator fuels her determination to create a nurturing environment for all children, advocating for the rights of providers along the way.
Maria, a respected figure in her community and a caregiver for 26 years, embodies the spirit of dedication and resilience. “I’ve built lasting relationships with many of the children I cared for, and now I’m caring for the children of those same families,” she says. Her commitment to the next generation is a testament to the profound impact that in-home childcare providers have on their communities.
Despite their dedication, in-home providers face significant challenges as independent contractors, struggling under a system that shifts all financial burdens onto underpaid and under resourced caregivers. The oversight from 4Cs – the county agency in Passaic responsible for distributing childcare subsidies and overseeing in-home childcare providers - has been particularly harsh, frequently targeting those who speak out for their rights. This has left many providers feeling marginalized.
Inspired by their shared experiences, Esther, Janely, and Maria took a stand. They spent months engaging with fellow providers, listening to their concerns about the disrespectful and unfair treatment from 4Cs. Through grassroots organizing, they collected signatures for a countywide petition and led a powerful demonstration. Their action has resulted in improved treatment and a promise from 4C’s to adhere to the current collective bargaining agreement.
Their activism didn’t stop there. Together with providers and parents, they successfully campaigned against proposed childcare cuts in the state budget, ensuring that provider payments remained intact. By sharing their stories with legislators and the Governor's office, they highlighted the importance of preserving and expanding childcare assistance for families.
“I’m involved in the union to move myself and my family forward, and to help other families in the community,” Janely states, embodying the spirit of solidarity that drives these revolutionaries.
Esther adds, “We will keep fighting for better wages and benefits. We need the system to change. Our rights as providers must be valued. Thanks to our union, we have a voice, and together, we can improve our jobs and provide the best care possible for the families we serve.”
Esther, Janely, and Maria are heroes in their community, standing up against injustice and fostering power among in-home childcare providers. Their relentless pursuit of equity and dignity in the childcare system serves as hope and inspiration for others navigating the complexities of this essential work. As they continue to fight for change, they remind us that when we fight, we win.
You can support the work that the 2024 Revolutionaries of the Year are leading by supporting NJ Communities United by purchasing tickets, becoming a sponsor, buying ad space in The Solidarity Journal, or donating to The 2024 Solidarity Awards & Cocktail Party. Visit www.UnitedNJ.org/2024Revolutionaries.