Childcare Cartel: The Vision Behind the Work
What The Childcare Cartel gets right is what the world often misses: Black women in childcare aren’t side characters. They are architects of early education, cultural caretakers, and multimillion-dollar business owners who don’t get their due. Until now.
As Sherri puts it: “We’re not just watching children—we’re shaping generations.”
One of the most honest moments in our conversation came when Sherri addressed something many providers—especially Black women—feel but rarely say aloud: the scrutiny that comes when your business actually succeeds.
“There’s a perception that if we show up with our hair done, or a new bag, or a new car—it’s suddenly not about the children anymore,” she told me. “But nobody says that about the white-owned franchises making millions. Their purpose isn’t questioned. Ours is.”
For Sherri, that double standard isn’t just frustrating—it’s dangerous. It forces Black providers into emotional labor and performance, constantly proving they’re not in it “just for the money,” even when they’ve earned every dollar.
“I’ve had months where I didn’t profit at all,” she said. “Where all I had was enough to feed the kids, buy supplies, and keep the lights on. So if you see me having fun when I finally can—that shouldn’t be a problem.”
Too often, Black women in caregiving roles are expected to pour endlessly, without boundaries or reward. But Sherri’s story pushes back against that narrative. It says: You can care deeply and still want comfort. You can be mission-driven and still expect money to flow. You can be excellent—and still deserve ease.
So whether you’re looking for childcare or just trying to understand what goes on behind the scenes, one thing’s for sure—The Childcare Cartel is more than a show. It’s a warning. A blueprint. An ode to the women who do this work with their hands, their hearts, and their hustle.
Get a first look at Sherri J. White’s bold new reality series by visiting childcarecartel.com
Follow the movement @sherrijlovely | @thechildcarecartel
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