Letter from the BC Teachers' Federation (BCTF) on this National Day of Action for Child Care

By email: executive.director@ecebc.ca

November 30, 2023

Emily Gawlick, Executive Director
Early Childhood Educators of BC
309 - 515 West Pender Street
Vancouver, BC V6B 1V5

Dear Emily,

Subject: Thank you letter to the Early Childhood Educators of BC

On this day, the National Day of Action for Childcare, I want to thank you on behalf of the BC Teachers’ Federation and its 50,000 members for all your hard work and meaningful contribution to
the lives of children and families in this province.

As a parent of five and as a teacher, I know the value of quality, licensed, and accessible childcare. Collectively, teachers across the province know that quality care is an absolutely fundamental part of a thriving community. Like the K–12 system, childcare provides connection and helps to build the very fabric of a healthy community. For so many families, their child’s experience in the early years provides the foundation for a healthy and meaningful relationship to education throughout their lives. Many teacher families depend on childcare programs as well, and as parents, we know how deeply meaningful your work is through our personal connection to you. We recognize your professional expertise, and we want to take this opportunity to celebrate your work and your passion and to thank you for your service.

In BC, we’ve seen some meaningful achievements for childcare users and workers over the past few years. We know the increase of available childcare spaces for families and a reduction in fees are key in the expansion of childcare availability across the province. That said, we also know that childcare workers deserve a comprehensive wage grid that guarantees fair and competitive wages. We understand that recruitment and retention are obstacles you are facing, and like teachers, you need government action to support building out the system.

Lastly, I want to assure you that as your partners, we believe that together we can support access to high-quality, inclusive childcare and K–12 education that realizes the goals of professional wages, good working conditions, and publicly supported infrastructure that honours children. We look forward to more work alongside you in this regard.

Emily Gawlick
November 30, 2023

Happy National Day of Action for Childcare!
In solidarity,

Clint Johnston
President
pc: Coalition of Child Care Advocates of BC