I haven't been on Daily Kos lately because I've found myself consumed with my newest passion -- writing for children. But as a children's writer and a political junkie, there are many times when these two passions intersect.
Yesterday was one of them.
In an effort to placate House Republicans and ensure that the federal gov't did not shutdown, important educational programs and organizations LOST their federal funding. Not cut. LOST.
I'm devestated to learn that the Reading is Fundamental (RIF) program is one of the programs to lose its federal funding.
Why is RIF important? What would the loss of federal funding mean to this program and to the kids it reaches?
Once Upon A Time. . . America valued her children's education.
The Reading is Fundamental program/campaign is one I remember growing up in the 1970s. This organization's goal is to put NEW BOOKS into the hands of kids, particularly in disadvantaged households.
Books of their own. That don't have to go back to a library or to school. Books that they can choose based on their interests. Books that will empower them to read and nurture their love of learning.
As public libraries are facing economic woes of their own, resulting in closure or limited hours, children's access to books might become more limited. According to RIF, two thirds of children living in poverty have no books at home. Can you imagine? I can't.
As Carol H. Rasco, president and CEO of Reading is Fundamental, states in her March 3, 2011 press release, the loss of federal funding puts RIF's ability to provide 4.4 million children with free books in serious jeopardy.
Reading is Fundamental has been around for 44 years and has received uninterrupted federal funding from SIX administrations. This is the first time in its history that RIF has lost federal support.
The poor of this country is under attack. Education is under attack. Will we let this ride? When the true budget battle takes place, will programs such as RIF that serve our youth -- our future -- be sacrificed?
Subsidies for oil companies, but no books for our children.
America, where are your priorities??