We think that the arts are a solution to some of these problems that kids face, so we support a lot of programs around the country that deal with them. Studying the arts, she said, will help them with their other subjects because the arts teach kids about themselves, and about real life experiences and emotions they might face. But since the Republicans have taken office, there has been a lot of talk about getting rid of the Endowment. Alexander said that many Republicans think that the arts, including arts education programs, should be funded privately. But they also don't like certain kinds of art that artists make, so they're trying to get rid of that as well.
Artists express a lot of controversial ideas.
Alexander feels that this is one of the reasons that Republicans do not want to sponsor the arts. People are questioning everything, which often happens at the end of a century. Artists are also questioning what's going on, and that's why there are a lot of politicians who are saying we don't like the art you're doing - because artists are questioning just like everyone else. With the major cuts on funding for arts programs, kids are not getting the adequate teaching that they need. Because of this, kids sometimes don't bother with art, but that education could make a big difference for them.