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 am concerned about the possibility of cuts to programs like Voice of America and other free radio initiatives. These programs offer an alternative set of news and culture to places that often restrict what the people see and hear in their national media. People in places like Iran, North Korea, and elsewhere in the world should have access to news that is not filtered and controlled by authoritarian, restrictive governments. Our programs such as Voice of America speak hope and democratic ideas into these places, showing the people that there are other ways to live. I do not want these programs closed or altered to become a voice for only one party or president's agenda. These should remain bipartisan, open news and culture outlets that further democracy in the world. Speak up in support of Voice of America and other programs. I do want my tax dollars spent on these programs, for the improvement of our global community.