No Small Matter: A Documentary and Discussion on Childcare Access

About

Our future depends on our youngest citizens—yet cost barriers are making quality childcare inaccessible to millions of families across America. Child Care Aware of Washington presents a screening and panel discussion of No Small Matter, a feature-length documentary film and national engagement campaign. The film brings public attention to this vital question by sharing powerful stories and stunning truths about the human capacity for early intelligence and the potential for quality early care and education to benefit America’s social and economic future. Sit in for a multifaceted documentary exploration and panel discussion about the ways our country is raising its youngest citizens, and what we can do to change the perception of when learning begins.

Panelists:

For 20 years in the Washington State House of Representatives, Ruth Kagi has been a champion for the children and families of Washington. Her tenacity led to the passage of bills that improved educational resources for children, including the Early Start Act, the creation of the Department of Children, Youth, and Families, and the Home Visiting Services Account.

Lois Martin is President and Director of Community Day Center for Children, Inc. in Seattle. In addition to her work at CDCC, Lois donates her time to civic and early learning policy issues, including serving as Co-Chair of the Washington State Early Learning Advisory Council (ELAC), Washington Childcare Centers Association, King County Children and Youth Advisory Board, and many more.

Before her election to the Washington State Senate, Claire Wilson was an administrator in early education and family involvement at the Puget Sound Educational Services District for 25 years. Claire brings her expertise to the Senate as vice chair of the Senate Early Learning & K-12 Education Committee.

Upon returning to work after the birth of her third child, Tacoma mom Kelly Blucher struggled to find and afford quality child care. By speaking up about her experience, she’s pushed state lawmakers to take positive steps toward affordable child care for all Washington families. Kelly credits her son Justice, for giving her the strength to be an advocate.

Amy K. Anderson is the Association of Washington Businesses’ Director of Government Affairs for education, workforce development, health care and federal issues. Before joining AWB’s government affairs team, Amy worked in policy analysis and workforce development throughout the Northwest, with experience in Oregon, Alaska, Spokane, and Seattle.