Ms. Rachel, the popular YouTube personality for young children, recently collaborated with New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani to promote the city’s new universal childcare initiative for two-year-olds. The pair visited a school in Lower Manhattan, engaging with preschoolers through classic songs like “Wheels on the Bus” and “If You’re Happy and You Know It.”
The Initiative Explained
Mayor Mamdani used the opportunity to discuss the program directly with the children, explaining that providing childcare makes “everyone really happy in the city.” Ms. Rachel reinforced this message, emphasizing that “giving makes us so happy, and giving child care makes everyone really happy.” The move is seen by some as a savvy political strategy, leveraging Ms. Rachel’s wide appeal among parents and young children.
Beyond Childcare: Ms. Rachel’s Activism
This collaboration highlights Ms. Rachel’s broader commitment to social activism. She has previously partnered with Save the Children to raise awareness about the situation of children in Gaza, and actively advocates for children’s rights. She was also appointed to Mayor Mamdani’s inaugural committee, demonstrating her influence within the local community.
The Bigger Picture: Universal Childcare and Social Equity
Ms. Rachel’s involvement underscores a growing movement towards universal childcare as a matter of social equity. She stated in an interview with USA Today, “The fact that kids don’t have food, shelter, just the basic needs…it’s 2026 and we figured out so many things – I want to help in every way I can.” Her strong stance on children’s fundamental rights – “It’s so simple that when we take care of children and allow them to meet their full potential, that’s the right thing to do” – reflects a growing consensus that investing in children is essential for societal well-being.
Investing in children is not just a moral imperative, but also an economic one. Societies thrive when their youngest members are given the resources they need to reach their full potential.
This collaboration between Ms. Rachel and Mayor Mamdani serves as a reminder that even seemingly lighthearted media figures can play a role in driving important social conversations. The move is likely to further galvanize support for universal childcare, both within New York City and beyond.