Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Arts in Education Week and the power of art to improve student learning, inspire creativity, and boost academic achievement at all ages. The arts speak to all of us in different ways. I am inspired by the performing arts, while others are drawn to design and, still, others express themselves through music. The exposure to and participation in creative disciplines empowers us to courageously innovate, a key to success in school and beyond. Mr. Speaker, in my home State of Rhode Island, music education is encouraged, actually, in State law. Unfortunately, Congress has not demonstrated the same commitment. I am extremely disappointed that the Republican appropriations package for fiscal year 2018 eliminates the Arts in Education program, a vital source of funding for arts programs across the Nation. Mr. Speaker, we must invest in the arts, not cut funding, and empower the next generation to realize their potential to create. ____________________”