dealing with the inner drama of a child

In light of Donald Duck's attempt to shut down 17 federal agencies including the NEA and the NEH, this video of a similar attack during the glories of the Regan era bears repeating. Fred Rogers made an appearance before the Senate Subcommittee on Communications in 1969 to defend PBS.

"One of the first things children in healthy families learn is a sense of trust...
If we in public television can make it clear that feelings are mentionable and manageable, we will have done a great service for mental health... What do you do with the mad that you feel?"

The Corporation for Public Broadcasting partially funds National Public Radio (NPR) and Public Broadcasting Service (PBS), currently receiving $445.5 million a year from the government, around half of which goes to the US’ approx. 350 public television stations.

Shutting down the NEA is an idea that dates back to the Reagan administration, though Reagan was ultimately dissuaded from the move by other conservatives.

[...] On May 1, 1969, Fred Rogers, host of the (then) recently nationally syndicated children's television series, Mister Rogers' Neighborhood (named Misterogers' Neighborhood at the time), testified before the Senate Committee on Commerce Subcommittee on Communications to defend $20 million in federal funding proposed for the newly formed non-profit Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which was at risk of being reduced to $10 million. Subcommittee chairman, Senator John Pastore (D-RI), unfamiliar with Fred Rogers, is initially abrasive toward him. Over the course of Rogers' 6 minutes of testimony, Pastore's demeanor gradually transitions to one of awe and admiration as Rogers speaks.

The Arts and Humanities are a vital part of our cultural identity and enhance the quality of our lives.” the petition reads. “They connect us to the past, they speak to us in the present, and they are our legacy, our gift to the future. 

via {the independent}