On February 17, Make Way for Books joined early childhood advocates from across the state for a day of advocacy at the Arizona State Capitol organized by the Arizona Early Childhood Alliance. Early childhood educators, childcare providers, families, organizations, and even young children shared issues facing young Arizonans and what can be done to remedy them.
Make Way for Books staff attended panels, took walking tours of the Capitol, visited with legislators, and weighed in on legislative priorities. For many staff, including Fernando Trujillo, the advocacy day was also an opportunity to connect with members of the early childhood community.
“Being in early childhood in Southern Arizona for the last fifteen years, I know a lot of people,” he chuckles. “It was good to collaborate with all those meaningful people who care so deeply about early childhood.”
Fernando was especially excited to see educators he coaches as part of The Story Project, our professional development program. Some came all the way from Yuma, including Kenia and Antonio Morales of Bubbles Early Learning Center.
“It felt incredible. I know in Yuma we’re making a huge difference. It’s nice to see that they care so much and value all of these things that help their children prosper. They care deeply about what they do.”
For Fernando, the message of the advocacy day aligns with the work Make Way for Books does with educators across the state.
“We’re here to remind them that their work is very significant,” he explains. “What they do is vital to children’s success and children’s futures, so it’s important for them to be in a position to find out what’s going on.”
Make Way for Books was grateful to attend the AZECA Early Childhood Advocacy Day to connect with staff from peer and partner organizations, put our work into a broader context, and make our voices heard.
When asked about the value of an event like this, Fernando paused to reflect. “There’s a lot of uncertainty,” he answers. “I love early childhood and I believe in it. Why not advocate?”