[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 133 (Friday, September 9, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1585]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ARTS IN EDUCATION WEEK

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. DAVID G. REICHERT

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 9, 2011

  Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, last year this House dedicated the second 
week of September as ``National Arts in Education Week.'' As a member 
of the Congressional Arts Caucus, I was proud to co-sponsor the 
resolution at the time and my belief in the importance of arts 
education and a robust arts scene for artists and innovators is as 
strong as ever.
  House Resolution 275--introduced by Rep. Jackie Speier--states, in 
part: ``Arts education, comprising a rich array of disciplines 
including dance, music, theatre, media arts, literature, design, and 
visual arts, is a core academic subject and an essential element of a 
complete and balanced education for all students.''
  In the Eighth District of Washington--the District I represent in 
this House--the community is blessed with teachers, mentors, and 
parents adamant that young people have an opportunity to participate in 
the arts. It is a joy for me to host an annual Congressional Arts 
Competition and view the paintings, photographs, sketches, and 
sculptures students create. I receive support on picking winners in the 
contest from members of local school boards, parents, teachers, and 
interested community members. The Competition culminates in an evening 
of celebration for the young artists and the smiles and pride on the 
faces of parents, grandparents, friends, and students light up whatever 
room the celebration takes place.
  Professional and amateur arts exist in my District as well. Even 
during a historically difficult economic time such as this, support for 
the arts is robust. The support is present because people understand 
what arts and artists provide: a unique, illuminating, and important 
perspective on life.
  My hope is that this country and this House never lose its belief in 
the arts. My hope is that we all continue to view arts education and 
support for the arts as an indispensable part of our culture and the 
education of our young people. I'm happy in the knowledge that House 
Resolution 275 dedicates a week to supporting arts in education and I 
hope this House joins me in spotlighting the arts in the individual 
districts of the United States.

                          ____________________