Update 8, Gitxsan Grandmothers Struggle with #ChildWelfare #Poverty #Genocide

Hello,

I wanted to share an update about my grandson, Angel. Recently, the daycare worker experienced a fire alarm on the weekend and realized she could not carry Angel down 19 flights of stairs in an emergency. She has two other children in her care, and safety is her priority. 

Because of this, I need to find another daycare for him starting in September, and it’s proving to be a very difficult task. With the high cost of rent in Vancouver, many daycares are shutting down or moving out of the city, making it even harder for families like mine to find reliable care.

In a recent email from T, the daycare worker, she expressed how much she has enjoyed having Angel at Sunny Family Childcare. However, she confirmed that she cannot continue to provide childcare after August 31, 2016, due to safety concerns. She mentioned, “I cannot carry him 19 floors down in case of an emergency when the elevators are not in use, especially since he is not yet walking or able to stand by himself.” 

I understand her concerns, but it’s disheartening to face yet another hurdle in securing consistent care for my grandson. 

This situation highlights the barriers Indigenous families encounter. We need your support to advocate for better access to childcare and resources. It’s crucial to recognize the systemic challenges we face, including racism and the lack of support for our families. 

I urge everyone to stand with us, to listen to our stories, and to help create positive change. Together, we can work towards a future where all children, including Indigenous children like Angel, have the safe and nurturing environments they deserve. Thank you for your understanding and support.

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