Angy Porras Gonzalez, from St. Louis, is a dedicated provider in our ECE Fellowship bringing a strong commitment to equity, cultural responsiveness, and provider voice. With firsthand experience supporting multilingual children and families, she believes deeply in fair compensation, high-quality care, and systems that uplift both educators and the communities they serve. Her advocacy is grounded in storytelling, authentic relationships, and showing up for the issues that matter. Read more about Angy here!
How did you become an advocate for early childhood education?
I became an advocate for early childhood education because educators deserve fair pay and benefits, and because I’ve seen firsthand how multilingual children and their families are often overlooked in early learning programs.
Why do you think it’s important to be an advocate as a provider?
It’s important to be an advocate as a provider because we’re on the front lines of what’s happening in the field. We’re one piece of the puzzle directly impacted by legislative decisions, and we need a voice at the table to help shape policies that truly support children, families, and educators.
Why should Missouri invest more in child care and early education?
Because children aren’t just the future, they’re the present. It’s essential that they have access to high-quality early learning experiences that honor and sustain them and their families.
In one sentence, what does the ideal child care and early education system look like for Missouri families?
An ideal system is universally funded, culturally sustaining, and ensures providers are fairly compensated and able to thrive.
What is one thing you’ve learned about advocacy that you’d like to share with others?
I’ve learned that advocacy starts with showing up, sharing your stories, building relationships, and connecting with others who care about the same issues.