Oakland Starting Smart and Strong’s Policy & Advocacy work seeks to undo the systemic racism embedded in the field of early care and education through greater support for this workforce -- which is composed primarily of women of color -- and through making child care more accessible for each and every family. With child care funds from the American Rescue Plan coming soon -- and with the possibility of unprecedented support for early care and education through the American Families Plan -- OSSS is laying the groundwork now to ensure that families and child care professionals most impacted by the pandemic have a seat at the table in reimagining early childhood systems that work for all. Here’s what we’re weighing in on. The Early Development Instrument (EDI) is a powerful tool to understand early childhood development in our community, and our goal is to ensure that this data is accessible to all of our community partners for data-driven advocacy efforts. Oakland Unified School District (OUSD) and Oakland Starting Smart and Strong (OSSS) have shared the 2020 EDI results with many community partners over the past few months.
In the November 2020 election, Oakland voters supported ballot initiatives that would uplift equity for children and families. Measure W will fund services for people experiencing homlessness; Measure QQ enables youth to vote in school board elections; and Measure Y approved bonds to fund OUSD construction. We’re proud that our local community prioritizes much-needed social services, youth civic engagement, and a long-term commitment for school infrastructure.
Statewide election results show that we have to continue to mobilize for equitable systemic change. Over the past few months, the OSSS collaborative developed our Policy & Advocacy Agenda. We're proud to join local, regional, and statewide advocacy efforts for equitable systemic change. In the midst of a high-stakes election season, we want to share our ballot initiative endorsements with our community. Vote YES on these state propositions and local measures! If you would like additional information on initiatives that impact our communities, please review these voter guides: |
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