Early childhood education programs are built on trust between families, educators, and communities. Yesterday, that trust was violated when an early childhood educator, with legal authorization to work in the United States, was nevertheless detained by federal immigration officials at her child care program, in front of children and families. The effects of this harmful action create fear and trauma that will linger in this community and in child care and early learning programs throughout the country. To help, we have created and compiled resources for educators on everything from creating welcoming communities to responding to immigration actions when they happen. 

In addition, we note that prior to this year, federal policies had prioritized the wellbeing of children and prevented immigration enforcement actions at sensitive locations like schools and child care centers, specifically to avoid harming children; this standard should be restored immediately. As our Code of Ethics dictates: "We do not harm children.” Add your voice in calling for passage of the Protecting Sensitive Locations Act.

This particular detention happened at a NAEYC-accredited early learning program that provides high-quality dual-language learning, and we are so proud of this program, its teachers, and its families. The diversity of our field and our nation is a strength, and all programs, educators, families, and children need our support at this time, alongside our collective opposition to actions that hurt children, families, educators, and communities.