[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 123 (Tuesday, September 14, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1603]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


 IN RECOGNITION OF NICKELODEON AND THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF ``DORA THE 
                               EXPLORER''

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. SILVESTRE REYES

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 14, 2010

  Mr. REYES. Madam Speaker, in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, 
I rise today on behalf of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus to 
recognize Nickelodeon for their commitment to educational programming 
that promotes the ideals of multiculturalism, bilingualism, and 
diversity. August 14, 2010 marked the 10-year anniversary of the 
popular animated television educational program ``Dora the Explorer,'' 
and this week the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute will 
recognize Nickelodeon at the organization's 33rd Annual Public Policy 
Conference.
  As co-chair of the Communications, Technology, and Arts Taskforce, I 
work with my colleagues to promote the advancement of Latino arts and 
culture in all mediums, including print, broadcast, and the Internet. 
Achieving these goals requires forming partnerships with local, state, 
and national groups, including artists, non-profit advocacy 
organizations, and corporate broadcasters and programmers.
  Nickelodeon is one of these important partners that has been 
successful in incorporating the values of multiculturalism, 
bilingualism, and diversity by producing shows like ``Dora the 
Explorer.'' The interactive children's television show, created by 
Chris Gifford, Eric Weiner, and Valerie Walsh, ranks among the top-
rated shows in nearly every major market in the world, and is 
syndicated to TV broadcasters in 151 markets and translated into 30 
languages. The program teaches Spanish in the United States, Australia, 
Canada, New Zealand and Ireland, and teaches English in most other 
international markets.
  The show's main character, Dora Marquez, has become an ambassador of 
Latino language and culture, reaching millions of children around the 
world. The show's creators have been able to use the full power of 
animation to transform the television medium as a force for bridging 
cultural gaps and educating children about diversity.
  I also applaud Nickelodeon for marking the 10th anniversary of ``Dora 
the Explorer,'' with a multi-year, multi-platform, pro-social campaign 
titled ``Beyond the Backpack.'' This program, named for Dora's iconic 
backpack, champions overall school readiness for preschoolers as they 
prepare for the important adventure of starting school.
  In partnership with an advisory committee that includes the National 
Parent Teacher Association, PTA, and other experts and leaders in 
school readiness, ``Beyond the Backpack'' will provide parents with 
tools and resources that can help children prepare for a well-rounded, 
positive experience as they enter kindergarten. Programs like these 
will promote education to all children and assist parents.
  I am pleased to recognize Nickelodeon on the 10th anniversary of 
``Dora the Explorer,'' and commend the network for their commitment to 
educational programming that promotes the ideals of multiculturalism, 
bilingualism, and diversity.

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