Eleanor Roosevelt (1939)

The Federal Theatre Project? Yes, I heard that Congress had concluded the hearings. I- Joe is this on the record or off? (sigh) My dear Joe, to be quite frank I don't support Congress in their decision to defund the project. Without federal funding, it will undoubtedly cease. Did you know I proposed the project in the first place? I feel to blame, in a way. I'm the one who sought out Harry with my brilliant plan to bring theatre to our nation. And when Mrs. Flanagan approached me about the project, I was the one who suggested she use it to educate about our country's problems. I followed their accomplishments through the papers. I attended their gala opening of Mikado in New York with Harry. You know me, Joe, you know I support the arts. Watching the Congressional Hearings, listening to those Congressmen calling their work lacking of any cultural value is maddening. And the fact they were accused of Communist infiltration? Joe, I can tell you they're not Red. But I also understand that the First Lady openly supporting an organization accused of such a thing would cause distrust. You know how much criticism Franklin is facing, those foul accusations the Congressmen whisper to each other. I'm well aware my silence is no small thing. I'm well aware it has cost those artists not only their project but their livelihood. But the fact is Joe that those congressmen had already condemned the project long before the hearing began. Voicing my opinion would have done nothing for them. Franklin agrees with me on that. Surely you understand as well, Joe?