Skip to main content
Search
Back to all

Women’s Commission Responds to Threats to Somali Daycare Providers

January 16, 2026

  • Announcements
  • Economic Well-Being
PowerPoint Deck Slide 1

OLYMPIA – The Women’s Commission cares deeply about child care and early learning providers. Over 90 percent of this workforce is made up of women, and they are the backbone of Washington’s economy. (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) These women make it possible for parents across our state to go to work, support their families, and contribute to their communities.

There are real safety risks to both child care providers and the children in their care when their homes and workplaces are exposed. Providers have an inherent duty to protect the children in their care, a responsibility that Washington’s providers take incredibly seriously.

This moment has been especially harmful for Somali and Somali American child care providers. This entire Somali community has already experienced heightened threats and hateful messages fueled by racist rhetoric at the national level. Now, a situation with no ties to Washington has resulted in harassment, and doxxing, and threats of violence. The actions of one or a few individuals cannot be a reflection of an entire community.

Washington has strong processes to investigate allegations of fraud. Doxxing people at their homes and businesses is not a part of that process.

While providers continue to close doors and child care shortages persist, our focus should be on valuing, protecting, and uplifting the women who work every day to provide safe care and education for Washington’s future leaders.”

Learn more about Washington’s child care monitoring and accountability system:
    • View Department of Youth, Children and Families (DCYF) slide deck
    • Watch the public work session

 

Sources: