"In our field it’s typically called Mommy and me, but we like to be a bit more inclusive,” my boss told me as we sat in his lush office. The business of babies pays well, I thought to myself admiring his shiny modern digs. At least for him anyway, and he was right of course. Mothers are not the only ones that can act as a partner for tiny tots; Dads, Aunts, and Grandparents can also be in attendance. In my experience as an Instructor, the people I listed are hardly ever in attendance. These classes should be retitled: Nanny and Me.

Walking down the streets as of late, I cannot help but notice the increase in the number of Black women I see pushing the strollers of white children. There had always been a few familiar faces in the area, but now I hardly recognize any of them. Coming from every direction imaginable, they line the streets of my neighborhood like dutiful soldiers. It is quite a sight to see believe me. Women whose faces look like my very own displaying the same nurturing and caring affection as my mother had once did when I was child, but to their white charges. I will admit that it is hard to control the intense feelings that come upon me at the sight of these women. I become angry, frustrated and then confused.