1. United States
2. Tenn.
3. Letter

Withdrawing funding from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) hurts kids, plain and simple. The AAP is the nation’s leading voice for children’s health. When its funding is reduced, children and families lose: Evidence-based guidance for pediatric care- AAP develops clinical guidelines that help pediatricians diagnose, treat, and prevent illness safely and effectively. Cuts slow updates and limit dissemination, especially in underserved communities. Public health education parents rely on- From vaccine safety and infant sleep to mental health and injury prevention, AAP resources help parents make informed decisions. Less funding means fewer accessible, trusted materials. Child mental health and development support- The AAP advances early screening, trauma-informed care, and adolescent mental health initiatives. These are already under strain, and funding cuts widen the gap. Equity in children’s healthcare- AAP programs help address disparities affecting low-income, rural, and marginalized children. Reduced funding undermines efforts to ensure all kids get a healthy start. Children don’t vote. They depend on adults to protect the systems that protect them. Undermining the AAP weakens pediatric care nationwide and kids pay the price. Fragile egos are running our government with minimal transparency. Invest in children’s health. Protect the AAP.