Lois Capps: “I support funding for the Endowment for the Arts. On the central coast of California, thousands of people of all ages…”

“I support funding for the Endowment for the Arts. On the central coast of California, thousands of people of all ages have been thrilled and inspired by a variety of programs, exhibits and performances made possible by NEA funding. For example, the Children's Creative Project, the Cal Poly Arts Program, the Cuesta College Public Events Program and the Santa Barbara Museum of Arts all have benefited from NEA seed money. I have worked in schools for over 20 years and I have also seen firsthand the advantages of our education. Art opportunities teach our children rhythm and design. But they also teach critical thinking skills and portable creativity. My State, a leader in computer technology and programming, demands a workforce that can think and work innovatively. These skills do not begin in college with an engineering class but in a child's elementary art class or a class trip to the museum. I urge my colleagues to restore funding for the NEA. It is matching funds but it allows private dollars to grow.”