CommuniKids DC Center to Close in Protest of Mayor’s Budget Cuts
In a bold move to protest Mayor Muriel Bowser’s proposed budget cuts to early childhood education, CommuniKids DC Center announced that it will be closing its doors for a day next week. The day care center, known for its commitment to quality education for young children, is calling the protest day “A Day without childcare.”
“We feel very strongly that we want to support our teachers and be there for our teachers. Because the consequences of this are going to be grim,” said Jeannine Piacenza, co-founder and executive director of CommuniKids Pre-Schools.
Mayor Bowser’s proposed budget includes nearly $300 million in cuts to early childhood education, with plans to slash funding to the Pay Equity Fund, which ensures that early childhood educators are paid on par with DC Public Schools teachers. The budget cuts will also impact pre-k and subsidy programs, causing concern among educators and parents alike.
In a letter sent to parents, CommuniKids announced that they will be closed on Friday, May 3, with staff rallying at Freedom Plaza and the Wilson Building to support those testifying at the public hearing on the budget.
While acknowledging the inconvenience to parents, Piacenza emphasized the importance of sending a message to the city about the impact of these budget cuts. The day care center is encouraging parents to join them at the rallies and is working with other programs to participate in the protest.
As the community comes together to fight for fair funding for early childhood education, CommuniKids DC Center is taking a stand and making their voices heard.