There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way in which it treats its children.
– Nelson Mandela, 1918-2013, anti-apartheid activist and former president of South Africa

Contributed by Elise Cranston, Director of Advocacy for Child Care Aware of America, and a dedicated advocate focused on championing a future with equitable access to essential services for all.

With campaigns in the United States heating up as we hurtle towards November 4th, it is easy to get lost in the competing soundbites and hot-button issues. These campaigns can feel far away from our everyday lives, but we have an important job to do. The upcoming elections are our chance to vote candidates into public office at multiple levels of government, including members of the U.S. House and Senate, governors, and state and local officials. The winners of these elections must be ready and willing to address the child care crisis directly impacting the child care system and the millions of families and providers that rely on it.

And the best part? Your voice can set the stage for the changes that are needed to make child care strong. Here are quick steps you can take (most require five minutes or less):

• Check your voter registration status or register to vote using this simple form.
• Visit Child Care Aware of America’s election hubpage for tools and guidance about how to engage, including a voter guide, an advocate toolkit, and sample social media.
• Become an advocate and join us at Child Care Aware of America to advocate for a child care system that is equitable and responsive to community needs.

As Election Day approaches, let’s send a message that real people (parents and caregivers, child care providers, and others) are coming together to make a difference and ensure that America is child care strong.

Will you join us?