Explore how to address systemic barriers and create pathways to leadership for historically underrepresented parents in early childhood systems.
Address the complex intersections of race, culture, and parent leadership in early childhood systems. This powerful session will feature organizations and parent leaders who are breaking down systemic barriers and creating pathways to leadership for historically underrepresented groups. Explore sensitive topics such as implicit bias, cultural competence, and the lasting effects of historical trauma on family engagement. Gain practical strategies for creating culturally responsive leadership opportunities and amplifying the voices of parents from diverse backgrounds to drive meaningful change in early childhood policies and practices.
Domonique Brace, Parent Leader & Doula
Domonique is a mom who is passionate about birthwork. She is trained as a birth doula, postpartum doula, birth assistant, and a (LCE) lactation counselor & educator. She believes maternal health & well being are undervalued and she is passionate about assisting families create bonds and routines that will instill confidence. As a postpartum doula she provides support to parents as they welcome a new family member. Everyone who welcomes a baby into their life could use some extra support. Planning ahead for a postpartum doula can help smooth the transitions as you adjust to your new family dynamics and get settled. She would love to make this a reality for more families in Michigan especially foster, adoption + single and teen parents. Outside of birthwork, Domonique enjoys being outdoors, planning fun events & spending time with her 7-year-old and partner Alex.
Naomi Larkin, Parent Leader
Naomi is the mother of a son diagnosed with ADHD, Autism, conduct disorder and deep depression. She is an advocate for her son and has found activities in the community her son enjoys. Naomi has done a lot of administrative work for her son, finding providers, and applying for funding for programs and resources on his behalf. She is currently helping with grant work with ECCS-Early Childhood Comprehensive System. She also volunteers in her community in Southeastern Denver, Colorado.
Candace Waggoner, Parent Leader, Foster Parent, Court Appointed Special Advocate
Candace is wife and mother to four children ages 13, 5, 2, and 4-months. She works as the Director of Volunteer Programming at Voices for Children, Court Appointed Special Advocate Supervisor, and licensed foster and adoptive parent. Candace has spent over a decade serving youth who have experienced foster care as a mentor through ChildSafe Michigan in Oakland County, and an additional three years as a Big through Big Brothers Big Sisters of America in Genesee County.