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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 16, 2001

News Release

NEA Lauds President's Fund for Afghan Children

"Indelible lessons about respect, unity, and the value of life are imparted"

Washington, D.C. -- The National Education Association announced its support today for President George W. Bush's launch of America's Fund for Afghan Children. "We thank President Bush for providing students with an opportunity to help their fellow students in Afghanistan," said NEA President Bob Chase. "Acts of kindness can make a world of difference, not just to those to whom they are directed, but also to those who perform them."

NEA's 2.6 million members who work in America's public schools hear firsthand the concerns children have about their own safety and about the safety of the children of Afghanistan. Chase said the national response in America's classrooms to the terrorist attacks in the U.S. has been nothing short of magnificent. The NEA online message board (www.nea.org/crisis/wb_crisis.html) is capturing numerous examples of healing activities underway in America's classrooms. Many include writing letters of support to rescue workers and fellow students in New York and Washington, D.C., studying the cultures of other nations, and making American flags.

Chase encouraged educators to promote President Bush's initiative in their homes and classrooms. Speaking at an American Red Cross event today, President Bush asked the children of America to make contributions of one dollar -- or whatever they can give. Contributions can be sent to:

America's Fund for Afghan Children
c/o The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W.
Washington, DC, 20509-1600

"The indelible lessons about respect, unity, and the value of life imparted in America's classroom will have a profound effect on the healing of today's students and tomorrow's citizens," said Chase. For more information about efforts to inspire hope and healing in America's school communities, visit www.nea.org/crisis/americaunited/01crisis.html .

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The National Education Association is the nation’s largest professional employee organization, representing 2.7 million elementary and secondary teachers, higher education faculty, education support professionals, school administrators, retired educators, and students preparing to become teachers.