Child Care Coalition of Manitoba

International Women's Day 2013 is a good time to remember that childcare is essential for women's equality. The Coalition has issued a IWD 2013 Press release.pdf calling for political action on childcare,  asking why Manitoba families don't have the same kind of accessible affordable childcare that Quebec families do.

           For more reasons why childcare is a women's issue, you can read the wonderful blog entry by Martha Friendly and Shani Halfon of the Childcare Resource and Research Unit, who ask "Think childcare is no longer a women's issue? Think again."

The province of Manitoba has launched a poverty reduction and social inclusion strategy. Between now and March 27th, a series of public consulations will be held all over the province (including a francophone session). You can also make your voice heard by filling in the on-line survey.  You will find the draft strategy and its recommendations online. Be sure to note that childcare is included in the section on early childhood education and parenting supports.

The Human Resources Sector Council, recently slashed by the federal government, has issued its final two research reports: You Bet We Still Care! Survey Report, which updates the 1998 study with current data, as well as Occupational Standards for Child Care Administrators. Both reports are free and available for download.

CUPE, the Canadian Union of Public Employees,  has launched a new campaign: Rethink Childcare. One of the great tools is a video of parents talking frankly about childcare.