Political Quotes

“I rise today to celebrate the life and work of Mary Babula. For 44 years, Mary was a tireless and passionate advocate for children and early childhood educators and a valued resource for policymakers. I was fortunate to work closely with Mary throughout my time in local and State government and later as a Member of the House of Representatives. Beyond our professional work together, Mary was a friend and also a mentor. I first met Mary in the 1980s when I was serving on the Dane County Board of Supervisors and concurrently in an appointed position on the Community Coordinated Child Care board of directors. Mary was at once an advocate for children and for the predominantly female professionals who teach and care for them. She understood that our children would only have safe, stimulating, and nurturing experiences in childcare settings if we invested in their training, credentialing, and adequate compensation. Those who are entrusted with the care of children while their parents are engaged in work or study deserve that high value. Mary was a passionate leader in that regard. Mary Babula organized early childhood educators to be effective voices on their own behalf. Whether it was lobbying for tuition assistance funding for low-income parents to be able to be afford high- quality childcare or rallying for worthy wages, Mary wanted early childhood educators to be seen, heard, and respected.…”