Erica Gallegos - "Building Blocks of Care"

Join us on Sticky Note Conversations with Erika Washington as we dive into an inspiring interview with Erica Gallegos, co-director of the Childcare for Every Family Network. Over the past 12 years, Erica has championed childcare rights in New Mexico, working tirelessly with childcare providers, parents, and community leaders to secure better wages, access, and systemic change. Erica shares her journey from being a childcare provider to a frontline organizer, discussing the deep-rooted challenges, victories, and ongoing efforts to implement the New Mexico Early Education Constitutional Amendment. Learn how the fight for universal childcare is reshaping the state's education system and empowering communities. Don't miss this powerful conversation on building power, decolonizing minds, and securing a joyous and equitable future for all families.
Theme song "Way Below Acceptable" by Grov "G.T." Tigue IV feat. Inohs Sivad is available on all of your favorite streaming platforms.
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/grovgttigueiv/quincyphones--the-collaba-nation-notes-from-2020

• (00:00) - Introduction to Sticky Note Conversations
• (00:45) - Meet Erica Gallegos: Childcare Advocate
• (02:17) - Challenges in Childcare and Education
• (03:30) - The Fight for Childcare Funding
• (12:05) - Erica's Journey into Organizing
• (14:32) - Cultural Heritage and Family Roots
• (15:34) - The Significance of New Mexico's Chili Ristras
• (19:16) - Struggles of Native American Identity
• (25:09) - Historical Trauma and Resilience
• (26:25) - The Importance of Organizing
• (27:28) - Personal Motivation and Ancestral Resilience
• (29:33) - Decolonizing the Mind
• (34:27) - The Role of Community in Childcare
• (36:45) - Challenges and Solutions in Childcare
• (48:07) - The Power of Rest and Joy
• (51:09) - Concluding Thoughts on Organizing and Community