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The ongoing pandemic has left countless families without access to child care, early learning programs or in-person instruction. Many families face the difficult decision to leave their jobs or hire additional assistance to properly care for their children, who are now at home. Hear from a panel of experts from diverse career backgrounds about the detrimental impact on parents and caregivers in today’s diverse and vast workforce and the critical role early learning centers and schools play in the reopening of our economy.

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Panelists

  • Dr. Theresa Hawley, First Assistant Deputy Governor, Education, State of Illinois
  • Peter J. Holt, CEO and General Manager, HOLT CAT; Co-Chair, Early Matters San Antonio
  • Angela Lampkin, Director, Educare Chicago
  • Cheryl Oldham, Vice President of Education Policy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce; Senior Vice President of Education and Workforce, U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation
  • Moderator: Diana Rauner, President, Start Early

Starting Early Begins With…

Early Childhood Advocacy. Prenatal & Maternal Health Care. Economic & Workforce Stability.

About the Series

Decades of research have proven that equitable access to high-quality early childhood experiences is one of the best ways to level the playing field, giving every child the opportunity to reach their full potential. Yet many programs and supports for young children and families are in jeopardy and have been devastated by the challenges and dire circumstances created by COVID-19 Start Early invites you to a three-part discussion series with experts who will offer evidenced-based solutions for overcoming many of the inequities—magnified by this global health crisis—that have existed in our communities for generations.

Each virtual event will cover a different topic and feature dynamic panelists dedicated to transforming the lives of our youngest learners. We hope you will join us for all three events.

The United States continues to report the highest rates of maternal mortality for birth parents when compared to 10 similarly wealthy countries – many of these deaths are preventable. The reality is that systemic racism and inequity contribute greatly to higher rates of maternal death among Black women. Nationally recognized as a voice on perinatal equity, Dr. Joia Adele Crear-Perry, MD, FACOG, will discuss the impact of social determinants and human rights on health outcomes for mothers and babies.

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Speakers

  • Dr. Joia Adele Crear-Perry, MD, FACOG, Founder and President, National Birth Equity Collaborative
  • Diana Rauner, President Start Early

Starting Early Begins With…

Early Childhood Advocacy. Prenatal & Maternal Health Care. Economic & Workforce Stability.

About the Series

Decades of research have proven that equitable access to high-quality early childhood experiences is one of the best ways to level the playing field, giving every child the opportunity to reach their full potential. Yet many programs and supports for young children and families are in jeopardy and have been devastated by the challenges and dire circumstances created by COVID-19 Start Early invites you to a three-part discussion series with experts who will offer evidenced-based solutions for overcoming many of the inequities—magnified by this global health crisis—that have existed in our communities for generations.

Each virtual event will cover a different topic and feature dynamic panelists dedicated to transforming the lives of our youngest learners. We hope you will join us for all three events.

There is an immediate need for local, state and federal policies that prioritize and sustain early learning and care programs. Join us for a panel discussion between early childhood experts to learn the importance of advocacy and its power to promote and inspire community change in the fight against generational poverty and inequity.

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Panelists

  • Jessie Rasmussen, President, Buffett Early Childhood Fund
  • Sarah Rittling, Executive Director, First Five Years Fund
  • Blythe Keeler Robinson, CEO, Sheltering Arms
  • Christina Walker, Director Policy & Advocacy, Clayton Early Learning
  • Moderator: Diana Rauner, President Start Early

Starting Early Begins With…

Early Childhood Advocacy. Prenatal & Maternal Health Care. Economic & Workforce Stability.

About the Series

Decades of research have proven that equitable access to high-quality early childhood experiences is one of the best ways to level the playing field, giving every child the opportunity to reach their full potential. Yet many programs and supports for young children and families are in jeopardy and have been devastated by the challenges and dire circumstances created by COVID-19 Start Early invites you to a three-part discussion series with experts who will offer evidenced-based solutions for overcoming many of the inequities—magnified by this global health crisis—that have existed in our communities for generations.

Each virtual event will cover a different topic and feature dynamic panelists dedicated to transforming the lives of our youngest learners. We hope you will join us for all three events.

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