1. United States
2. Wisc.
3. Letter

I am a mother of two school-age children, a teacher, and a proud member of my community in Waukesha, Wisconsin. I strongly oppose the current rescission request that is before Congress, which among other things would reverse funding for programs already approved in areas such as public broadcasting and foreign aid. Most of the cuts to public broadcasting would hit hardest in rural areas and small local stations with less alternatives for funding. As someone who has lived in these areas, such as the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota, I can attest to the key role these services play in education and broadcasting of announcements or emergency messages. I also object to the rescission of funds for foreign aid programs like PEPFAR that have proven highly successful, with an impact in the world far beyond its funding. Not only have millions of lives been saved worldwide in terms of HIV/AIDS, but it has consistently promoted a positive message of American as a helper. In the places where these programs work, that message is urgently needed in our shifting global politics. Please vote a strong no to this rescission request, which does not save America much money in the face of the massive spending and excess debt just approved in the new budget bill. However, it brings great value in terms of helping vulnerable people and a positive, united American image. Thank you .