Demonstrators lash Bain Capital over future of childcare centers

A group of Chicago parents, activists and workers fear the buyout of a for-profit education and social service provider by one of the nation's largest private equity firms will result in deep budget cuts and a reduction in quality.

The group of 70 demonstrated Thursday in front of Bain Capital LLC's Chicago offices. Holding homemade signs, the group expressed concern that Bain's recent takeover of Watertown, Mass.- based Bright Horizons Family Solutions would lessen the quality of services locally provided by the company's centers.

Demonstrations were also held at Bain offices in Boston, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C.

"Bain has a reputation of coming and cutting jobs and that's cause for concern," said Faith Arnold, a Chicago childcare provider. She added that Bright Horizons has played an important role for many Chicagoans. "They provide quality care to children, support for working families and jobs for educators. They have been very important in the childcare profession," she said.

The demonstrators demanded that Bain invite the community into any discussions about the future of the health and childcare centers. "We are very worried about the voices of parents, teachers and community leaders getting lost in the shuffle," said Brynn Seibert, a spokeswoman for Service Employees International Union, Local 880. "Our primary demand is transparency, accountability and making sure parents, teachers, healthcare providers have a say in the future direction of the centers."

In a statement, a Bain official said the firm was among the original believers and financial backers of the Bright Horizons, and fully supports the company's mission to provide the highest quality care, education and services to children and working families. The official declined specific comment on the demonstration Thursday.

Still, some were concerned. "Bain has a record buying and cutting resources," Seibert said. "And we don't think that is something that will be best for teachers in Bright Horizons, or for parents or for the children who get their healthcare there."

Michelle Young, a Chicago provider said she is also concerned about possible service cuts at the centers. "It's time for Bain Capital to do the right thing in our community, not yesterday but right now," Young said.

"They need to tell parents and teachers in their community who depend on them what they are doing. Bring it out into the light instead of making decisions behind closed doors that leave everyone in the dark," she added.