BlackECE in the News:
Black and Latina workers bear the brunt of California’s low child-care wages, report finds
February 13, 2024
The Los Angeles Times has featured a groundbreaking study released by the UC Berkeley Center for the Study of Child Care Employment, co-authored by our very own BlackECE Co-Founder and Board President, Dr. Lea Austin!
The study reveals that Black and Latina workers in California, particularly in the child-care sector, experience significant wage disparities compared to their white counterparts. Despite similar qualifications and educational achievements, women of color often face lower wages and limited career advancement opportunities.
One striking revelation from the report is that Black educators in California are frequently overlooked for pay increases, even after obtaining higher educational degrees. This systemic issue perpetuates wage gaps and contributes to the disproportionate representation of women of color in lower-paying roles within the child care industry.
The report sheds light on the systemic inequities faced by women of color, particularly Black and Latina child care workers, who endure discrimination and limited career advancement opportunities. This unequal treatment not only affects individual livelihoods but also perpetuates broader economic disparities within communities of color.
In response to these findings, it is imperative that we take action to address the racial disparities in wages and opportunities within the child care workforce. By advocating for fair compensation and equal access to advancement, we can work towards creating a more equitable and inclusive society for Black Californians.
BlackECE remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for fair wages, professional development opportunities, and equal treatment for Black child care workers. Through collaborative efforts and community engagement, we strive to dismantle systemic barriers and create a more just and equitable child care system in California.
“The message I got as a Black woman in early education was that no matter what you do — what letters and degree attainment — this is your place.” – Dr. Lawanda Wesley, BlackECE Co-Founder.
Dr. LaWanda Wesley’s experience highlights the pervasive discrimination faced by Black women in the child care sector, where qualifications and achievements are often disregarded in favor of racial bias.
“Women were forced to do it for free and forced to care for their oppressors’ children instead of their own children.” – Keisha Nzewi, BlackECE Woman in Charge.
Keisha Nzewi underscores the historical roots of exploitation and undervaluation of Black and brown women’s labor in child care, dating back to the era of slavery and continuing through systemic inequalities today.
“This is a Black and brown problem. As a whole, we are just not valued.” Betty Luckett’s statement highlights the urgent need to address the systemic devaluation of Black and brown workers in the child care industry, where persistent wage disparities perpetuate economic injustices.
Dr. Lea‘s study provides critical insights into the disparities faced by Black and Latina child care workers, emphasizing the urgent need for policy reforms and systemic changes.
- Black and Latina educators are more likely to be employed in lower-paying roles.
- Black educators are not rewarded with pay increases for obtaining a higher educational degree.
- While Black educators make up 8% of the total early child care workforce, they are 13% of in-home child care providers, who are the most likely to report economic worries.
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