While other industries have suffered, the nonprofit arts world continues to build in strength while it encourages the growth of innumerable small businesses on its periphery, thereby creating more jobs.

We have a responsibility to promote stem cell research which could lead to treatments and cures for diseases affecting millions of Americans.

Many poor and low-income women cannot afford to purchase contraceptive services and supplies on their own.

And whether it is equal pay, health care, Social Security, or family leave, this Congress has refused to address issues critical to hard-working American women.

Women in the service put themselves in harms way to protect us and our Nation from threats at home and abroad. The least we can do is ensure they are protected when facing a horrible tragedy.

Challenge America grants go to the towns and hamlets of this sprawling country, where big touring companies will rarely go, and major actors, actresses, writers and artists may never appear in person.

For most women, including women who want to have children, contraception is not an option; it is a basic health care necessity.