May 1, 1969: Fred Rogers testifies before the Senate Subcommittee on Communications

On May 1, 1969, Fred Rogers, host of the (then) recently nationally syndicated children's television series, Mister Rogers' Neighborhood (named Misterogers' Neighborhood at the time), testified before the Senate Committee on Commerce Subcommittee on Communications to defend $20 million in federal funding proposed for the newly formed non-profit Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which was at risk of being reduced to $10 million. Subcommittee chairman, Senator John Pastore (D-RI), unfamiliar with Fred Rogers, is initially abrasive toward him. Over the course of Rogers' 6 minutes of testimony, Pastore's demeanor gradually transitions to one of awe and admiration as Rogers speaks.

[@CuspofResolution]

I was about to comment ‘where have all the good people like this man gone in the world?’ And the I started reading the comments and realized they are all here..

[@Mr.Deko86]

@@dvb8637 Those who missed out watching Mr. Rodgers on television, missed out on important lessons on how to control and process your feelings.

[@anklebiter9116]

Thank you sir. You deserve a lot of respect. I'll never meet you but I love your outlook. I wish Mr Rogers was still alive I owe him and now I'm confused because I can't pay it back.

[@eamonia]

...and there you are. What a sweet, wonderful, display of kindness and compassion. Thank you. Thank you, ever so much.

[@isaacstoker3832]

And there we've found one of the most wonderful people in the world. In a KZbin comment, of all places. Someone who sees the good in all these people commenting on a video of a man being incredibly sincere in the face of a hostile audience. Finding a connection with people who are terribly enthused about the idea of kids, across the chuffing planet, having a place they can find a sense of care, that even if they're half a world away there's someone who genuinely gives a shit about them. Is that not a wee bit of a miracle back in the 70's? Not to adopt a cliche, but you've made this day a special day, just by reading your comment ❤

[@eazye519]

The liberals are them

[@lawrencesuzara8073]

The year was 1969 and Mr. Rogers is already talking about mental health awareness in children as if it's 2019.

[@Loulizabeth]

That's exactly what I was thinking. Unfortunately though I'm sure people would want to see a similar program on TV today, you would need to find a similar man with his heart for children and people to be both in front of and behind the scenes to create such a program. Today's entertainment businessmen I doubt would green light this kind of venture and certainly not by a man like Mr Rogers who was Christian minister who lived out his faith and walked what he talked and believed.

[@enrgy52]

Amazing isn't it.

[@SPACEHARICE]

@@Loulizabeth your right it really does seem like he had no ulterior motives judging from the people he met comments on him.

[@zalfir]

"We will have done a great service for mental health" - I was half expecting him to say "for decades to come" after that.

[@lowellkennett6560]

Daniel Tiger..

[@inigorodriguez8299]

This man saved PBS in 1969 by reading a children's song to a grown ass man, a Senator at that. You can't convince me he's not Superman.

[@antonionunez3759]

No he's Mr. Rogers. 😉

[@mickdavis2385]

The senator was an ass man ?

[@inigorodriguez8299]

@@candysmith8724 I'm pretty sure he'd be delighted to hear that. It is clear you learned nothing from Mr. Rogers. Shame on you.

[@therayven3147]

@@candysmith8724 I'm not too keen on gay marriage either, I believe marriage is for a man and a woman, but, if a man wants to marry a man (or woman marry a woman), that is their choice... And they have the right to choose... Regardless of who they are...

[@silverdays2909]

@@therayven3147 thats awesome, just let people be happy

[@CMaldonado1690]

Senator: I'm about to end this man's whole career... Mr rogers: I'm about to make a new friend.

[@davidigleniec2483]

don't make me cry

[@alyssapinon9670]

The most accurate statement ever. Could also be “I’m about to make this man my neighbor”

[@triwahyudi1451]

Don't make me cry bro

[@xtzyshuadog]

*Hah, that's great. Just wonderful. Keep wondering, in and around the yard, down the block, in the home and out in the field and in the road. Wonder what you can learn and find more of today with these great internet resources we have.*

[@Ddarkan]

This is the most wholesome form of this meme I've seen.

[@skirtonbear1]

During 9/11 Mr. Rogers reminded parents to shut off the TV reports because our kids needed to talk to us directly.

[@circleancopan7748]

Then, he talks about what happened in 9/11 that was acceptable to kids and parents alike. He really did talk about 9/11 in a kid-friendly way.

[@andrewmiller3478]

Heck, he did it for the adults too. Some people needed a friend in such moments.

[@tawogtrailers]

​@@circleancopan7748And he taught us to look for the helpers

[@dontcallmewave]

The senator went from mocking him to practically holding back tears

[@gishathosaurus6828]

I mean, just listen to how different his tone is in 5:06. And it only took him six minutes, incredible

[@SMA2343]

@@gishathosaurus6828 You can also see his body language, at the beginning he's very sat up straight and such, in a very fighting stance. At the end, he's very more laid back.

[@brianjanson3498]

He had probably seen so much insincerity that when he saw the genuine article, he knew it.

[@leeannasloan526]

@@brianjanson3498 you are so right..this particular senator, if I heard right he was a senator. was known to be a real hard ass and not like his time wasted or to have someone b.s him..I don't remember what video I saw it on but remember clearly he was tough. Mr. Rogers knew what he was up against and that most likely he wouldn't win his case but stuck to his guns and rose to the occasion and turned this man to his way of thinking. It amazes me the amount of respect for one another here..I don't see that much anywhere I go.

[@tylercrouch31]

0:54 “WOULD IT MAKE YA HAPPY IF YA READ IT?” To 6:40 “Looks like you just earned the $20 million dollars.”

[@thatguywiththeface2444]

"We're going to cut your budget!" *Mr. Rogers talks for 6 mins* "Okay, here's 20 million"

[@waffleless]

That guy With the face Haha so true

[@-HustleUnion-]

its funny because it would be so absurd but, i always liked bizzaro Mr. Rodgers talking like a wiseguy "with all due respect sir, i'm ova here busting my hump trying to make sure the youth doesn't grow up to be criminals, $6000 ain't gonna work my friend. i'll be by tomorrow for my money, yous guys have good day. oh hey, and i like you just the way you are HAHAHAHAH, PAULIE go start the car lets get outta here."

[@drewski1535]

That guy With the face All he did was use his normal voice not screaming or slamming his hand down on the table and he got the money to save his show this is still outstanding if only we could all do this

[@AaronDLee]

Geek37: He didn't need to -- he just spoke his truth and that was enough.

[@JohnGoetzGaming]

Geek37 if he’d have done that he wouldn’t have gotten the funding. You need to work on your powers of persuasion. Saying the thing that sounds best to you isn’t always the most effective argument

[@Starwars4J]

It's important to see that Mr. Rogers did not defeat Senator Pastore. He didn't conquer him. He didn't sooth a savage beast. He did what he did every day and with everyone. He saw the best in the Senator and helped the Senator become that best version of himself. He didn't bestow love or kindness on the Senator, he brought out the Senator's inner kindness and beauty. As he did with us all.

[@jasperjohnson8582]

Starwars4J, That's because Fred Rogers was a very unique man, and a genuinely kind human being.

[@cwhale06]

I don't think you could sum it up better. That was the beauty of Mr. Rogers.

[@SightForMemories]

I think personally, that mr rogers was using feeling instead of words, and already knew the senator from what he experienced in conversation.

[@kkorjus8685]

Wow, that is... well said. Just like the other comments. Are YOU secretly Mr Rogers?

[@Denvillian]

Starwars4J well said.

[@NeonKC]

“Looks like you’ve just earned the 20 million dollars” that was straight out of a movie. Goosebumps.

[@Dupstan]

How is there not a Mr Roger's movie??

[@DerHerrMitR]

@@Dupstan There is...

[@joshuamulligan4155]

​@@Dupstantom hanks played him

[@Dupstan]

@@joshuamulligan4155 dang well that ruins it

[@BoxingGOATEdits]

@@Dupstan Hollywood doesnt have the spiritual power to ruin such a great man as Fred Rogers

[@TriGuy51]

A friend of mine who grew up in a troubled home said he liked Mr. Rogers because "he was the only adult who never yelled at me."

[@bobbob-sv4mk]

Wow!

[@davidwalter2002]

My wife knew a woman whose father was a career Marine. They lived on the base, and this little girl was surrounded by large, loud men of action (nothing against Marines, but facts are facts). Her mother loved to have the girl watch Mr. Rogers because it showed her that there are men who are quiet, gentle, and thoughtful.

[@nuclearcatbaby1131]

@@davidwalter2002My stepdad was an asshole navy man. Probably why I grew up to be asexual.

[@ericortega1745]

Goosebumps. Seriously some people should not procreate.

[@srkingleon9561]

Bro... That almost made me cry...

[@kegansummers]

Talking about mental health in the 60s. The man was an absolute pioneer. LEGEND

[@Drskopf]

I said the same thing he was the man, the man that became a legend for doing what he love most!

[@downx2767]

Ok Advantage Exploration

[@khicks8799]

Advantage Exploration in the spirit of Fred Rogers I will not dislike your comment, but instead I want to ask you a question, Why did you leave that? It’s very short so I don’t know much of what your thought process was or what it is even supposed to mean

[@yotxguy9670]

Shadow Assassin mental health anymore is simply a scapegoat for lazy teens and young adults that don’t want to participate in society because it’s too hard for them. Grow a fucking sack and quit your whining

[@Prod-23]

@@yotxguy9670 Seems you have some anger issues to work though. Good luck with that. x

[@matthew3454]

Senate: "Budget cuts!" Rogers: "I have a song for you..." Senate: "Please take 20 million dollars"

[@EngineerMikey5]

Which is 141,000,000 in today's money.

[@Gojiragon]

“In fact, let me increase it by 5 million.”

[@MaximC]

*Please!* 😄

[@Pragabond]

Got us to 999 likes and I can't wait for someone to get to enjoy rolling over to that sweet sweet 1k. Congrats to whoever gets it

[@Rely10]

😁👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@jasonaltham7013]

I heard a story once where Mr Rogers had his car stolen and when the car thieves found out who the car belonged to, they returned it with a written apology. I cannot think of anyone alive today that could command (and deserve) that kind of respect.

[@moboutmen]

True story. Can you imagine when they looked at the registration? "FOR CHRISSAKE, WE STOLE MISTER ROGERS' CAR?!?

[@maicey_t.]

I further remember, and correct me if I'm wrong, that he then invited the car thieves to dinner.

[@yuarentlucky]

@@maicey_t. What a legend.

[@meesaikozhi71]

Apparently this story is unproven but honestly I’m gonna believe it anyway cus it’s too sweet!

[@jasonaltham7013]

@@meesaikozhi71 If it isnt true it should be.

[@troytellsit493]

In less than 7 minutes Fred Rogers turned a gritty no BS senator into a compassionate concerned man that was eager to hand over millions. That’s truly impressive.

[@justjust5580]

I’m glad I’m not the only one that realized that! Truly impressive indeed

[@NathanThePrezPretlow]

This was like Jesus taking evil out of a person and changing them into a nice person .Mr.Rodgers had that kind of power.

[@thegameranch5935]

@@NathanThePrezPretlow that senator isn’t evil, he was concerned about children television and was misinformed about great educational pbs shows

[@raymesquite]

When the senator was 9, his father died and his mother worked hard to raise the senator. So when the senator heard Mr. Roger's concern for children, it must've tugged on the senator's heartstrings.

[@nisim04]

talk no bullshit, receive no bullshit its as simple as that.

[@supertoasting1011]

And that senators heart grew three sizes that day.

[@naysebtc]

I love how he changes up and the way he says “yes” to hearing Mr. Rogers. Like he brought out his inner child.

[@LadyJ_88]

😂😂😂 Brilliant

[@rosierose1917]

And then he died because a heart 3 sizes too big is unhealthy...😂

[@mungy27]

3 x 0 = 0

[@suewatters1]

@@rosierose1917 He died of Cancer

[@thecursor1]

John Pastore looks like he's never smiled once in his life and suddenly he's handing twenty million dollars out like it's a bottle of water at a barbecue. Fred Rogers was just that nice a guy.

[@BossHoggBroDog]

Daniel Monaco especially considering how brutal he was to all of the PBS execs and anyone else who wanted money. Imagine a man who wouldn’t give a dollar to an organization and in 7 minutes gave it 20 million dollars

[@davec3651]

Mr. Rogers was a Jedi.

[@grumbles]

Also consider that 20 million dollars in 1969 is equivalent to $140 million today

[@marcywantsto7553]

@@grumbles oh damn yeah, didn't think about it that way

[@adempc]

I've never had water at a barbecue, but I know what you mean.

[@buryyourdraws]

I was lucky enough as a kid to meet Fred Rogers multiple times because my dad worked at the same PBS station, and the last of those times was when I was about 14 years old. But 6 years later when I was an adult (and looked a LOT different) he and his wife came into the restaurant I was working at and he instantly called me by name and took a couple minutes to talk to me. After all the thousands of kids he had met it still makes me smile that he remembered me

[@redcrabsc1149]

💞

[@mr.f716]

I dont even have the mental capacity to be this lovely

[@johncrane3858]

That sounds a little unbelievable.... Or it would if you were talking about anyone else.

[@nathankosanke2093]

@@mr.f716 I don't have the mental capacity to COMPREHEND being this lovely.

[@adamkahn8645]

he remembered every blessed soul he was fortunate to make contact with in life. One of my biggest regrets is not paying ALOT more respect to him when i was a young man. I knew that even though my mom didnt care that i was being s. abused, he would have.

[@rozi2089]

$20 Million in 1969 is the equivalent to $139.5 Million in today's money (2019). Mr. Roger's was the man!

[@CraveAHaven]

inflamation is a bitch

[@vijayraj3016]

@@CraveAHaveninflamation lmao

[@dupersuper6516]

@@CraveAHaven *Inflation It's economics not an STD

[@danielvazquez392]

Haha std!

[@rozi2089]

@@dupersuper6516 🤣🤣🤣

[@mikeeinarson5548]

Not all heroes wear capes. Some wear cardigans and blue sneakers.

[@thedeepfriar745]

There was a practical side to the sneakers. They made less noise on the soundstage floor

[@downtime86stars17]

Cardigans knitted by their moms.

[@davidrichter9164]

So true.

[@staceybair5407]

I'm watching pbs now, a documentary on Mr. Rogers. I was 5yrs. old in '69 I remember him so vividly. He really was a kind and loving human being!! I'm tearing up a lil bit as i write this, but i have to say watching Mr. Rogers again after all these yrs. makes feel like that 5yr. old again...everything is gonna be alright😷✊👊✌💕"🎶won't u b my neighbr?!"🥰

[@kevtlee08]

And announce every time he feeds the fishes

[@marcosiification]

He is talking to congress the same way as he would have been talking to a child. Amazing man.

[@uncletony6210]

"talking to congress the same way he would have talked to a child," maybe apropos.

[@Zaximillian]

Maybe we're all children, not quite all grown up as we think ourselves to be. I don't think I want to be all grown up. I think I want to keep growing.

[@sdsign4229]

Well, he always made it a point to talk to kids like he would talk to adults. I guess that's just how he talked to everyone :)

[@rampageclover9788]

Why? Because most of the people in congress are children

[@NJGuy1973]

No. He spoke to the Senator like a neighbor.

[@derekbopp8927]

Is anyone else here tearing up seeing Mr. Rogers win over a scowling hard-assed legislator? I'm 44 years old, and I STILL love this man. I never met Mr. Rogers, but I still feel like he's my friend.

[@ReactaDev]

Yes. I never got a chance to watch him, but this man is amazing.

[@thomassicard3733]

I feel really good about myself, knowing that Mr. Rogers likes me - just the way I am. I like him, too!!

[@nattymorillo9268]

of course, he's your friend! and you're perfect the way you are.

[@BuefordWilson]

I am right there with ya, bud. Grew up with him on PBS and feel as though I am a far better person because of him. Can't really say how many times I've watched this video as I keep coming back from time to time.

[@Kalleion]

It's an incredible transformation, at 1 minute Mr. Pastore is irritated, at 2 he is interested, at 3 he is enamored. Fred Rodger's skill as an orator is almost unbelievable.

[@minitrapper]

Sen. Pastore: "I am the senate!" Mr. Rogers: "You have a wonderful determination and I am very proud of you." Sen. Pastore: "It's funding then!"

[@noahzubairi3731]

minitrapper not yet

[@DavianSinner]

LOL, nice.

[@DavidDoboni]

Our funds have doubled since the last time we met

[@dongbong7405]

He was the best TV host on the planet. He was a gentle speaker. And he was a good friend

[@Ani-Albanian]

Starwars reference?

[@Nhnhnfk]

"If we in the public sphere can make it clear that feelings are mentionable and manageable, we will have done a great service for mental health." This sentence alone is just wonderful.

[@kittenkorleone2918]

School shootings could well become a thing of the past when bad feelings can be expressed and dealt with rather than stuffed to fester then finally erupt in violence. Mr Rogers, we need you more than ever!

[@tvtitlechampion3238]

But we need to say it louder so even the adults can hear it and take it to heart.

[@jasonkilley]

Absolutely. *mentionable* that's the key

[@Austin_B._Hahn]

I agree. That was the best part for me too. I'm glad I'm not the only who feels and thinks this. :)

[@Beer-can_full_of_toes]

The Fred Rogers foundation is still hard and happily at work doing what they can to continue Fred’s work for children and I’m so thankful for that as are my kids. I only wish there were more outlets of entertainment like this that promote that sentiment. Cartoons are really strange and mildly adult considering the audience they have. Most of them are pointless and unnecessarily loud and obnoxious which only lets children think that is the way to be funny or how to communicate in general. Expressing ones feelings about things are so rare still. How monumental was the episode of mr Rogers after Bobby Kennedy was assassinated. He spoke to not only the children but the adults about how to deal with such serious things.

[@beccabasson4285]

I also love how the senator’s tone even changed as Rogers spoke so calmly and lovingly. He began to speak to him more softly. Mr. Rogers working his magic, real time.

[@gynandroidhead]

It was a genius and genuine play by Fred Rogers right from the get go when he chose to tell Mr. Pastore "no, I just want to talk about it (and not read some canned speech you've heard for two friggin' days). Sort of reminded me of the famous chess game "Placid Beauty" with Bobby Fischer and Boris Spassky in 1972.

[@pluswig]

@@gynandroidhead it wasnt a play it was just him being up right. Honest and caring about mental health.

[@gynandroidhead]

@@pluswig A "play" in the context I am using it (I'm a gaming mathematician BTW) actually works best whilst being genuine and reading a situation. Fred Rogers was very versatile, and trust me - he still could have been genuine with some variation of the situation called for it. But we all can agree that he was honest and caring about the mental health and well being of children.

[@gynandroidhead]

@peroh Both

[@dirkdiggler8427]

Me too.

[@jaysherman2615]

Senator Pastore had every right to be skeptical of everyone who spoke to him. People begging for money for their own personal gain. My thought is that he was looking Mr. Rogers up and down for any sign of guile or deceit. It was around 3 minutes in Senator Pastore realized he was dealing with someone who was genuinely honest and cared about children. You can tell at a certain point he went from mildly annoyed at Mr. Rogers and went to genuinely happy to speak with him.

[@NooneStaar]

Yeah, I think it's fair to be skeptical when he's dealing with State funds like this .

[@ericortega1745]

Mr Rodgers helped me realize that divorce is common. Sometimes kids really think that they are the problem

[@ladynikkie]

He was very genuine and it's a shame he's not here anymore

[@ElFino013]

This man was able to get 20 million dollars from the Senate is less than 7 minutes. With only kindness and caring.

[@marcelaperez4126]

ElFino013 I’m crying. Your right.

[@0okamino]

And with being genuine about it.

[@far22186]

Nope. He got 22 million

[@andrewmcconnell5699]

far22186 doesn't matter. Fred Rogers was a man before his time. Far and wide he was the kindest, most thoughtful person to exist on this planet. The human race did not deserve someone as kind hearted as that man, but I am extremely glad that we did.

[@jonathanfurtado3696]

I heard shortly after. when the Senate made the budget for the new year they increased it from 20 million to 40 million dollars.

[@fn336]

That moment when you realize Mr. Rogers wasn’t acting. 😳

[@CascadianRanger]

I dont think he acted a day in his life

[@le_th_]

I know, right? I think we somehow knew that as little ones, but eventually grew up to believe he must have been acting (like most of the TV show hosts we watched). Fred Rogers was the real deal...unique...one of a kind...and not another like him.

[@captainfancypants4933]

Yea I watched him religiously as a child he Never Ever acted Ever and had a profound effect on my childhood

[@MakeUpMofo]

I never thought it was an act ever

[@rafthethinker4948]

He's an angel.

[@noorrougelewis6704]

Not one stutter or 'um' in his entire speech. And he improvised.

[@tstuart9636]

When spoken from the heart, you dont need to stop and think.

[@juliopinedo9402]

The man was incredibly eloquent

[@29slowjoe]

@laz kar He never pushed jesus or Christianity down anyone's throat though. He believed each persons spiritual journey was unique and personal.

[@tylerjaynes822]

I heard one or two ums, and he has a script A script he barely looked at, and his ums were shrouded in wisdom and thoughtful words So it's fine :)

[@dylanr4854]

Tyler Jaynes yeah, nothing wrong with a couple “um”s

[@funkytownfortworth5160]

This man deserves a national holiday seriously... he helped save, and shape millions of children into productive adults with his 40 plus years of service.

[@thetechlibrarian]

No kidding.

[@SpeedySpringTrap]

And yet if he was still here he would turn down that offer cause that man was the definition of humble I think at least his show needs to rerun on kera again (at a very reasonable time than 5 or 4 in the morning)

[@clurkroberts2650]

I totally agree, that’s a wonderful suggestion. I think a National Holiday for Fred Rogers would be a wonderful celebration for the man and principles It would benefit the nation and our children.

[@ZyroShadowPony]

He deserves to be considered a saint

[@nannan3347]

Sorry, best we can do is Juneteenth

[@jasongoodacre]

Back when a man could talk calmly and reasonably without anger and have people understand his message. We need a Mr Rogers today.

[@tdd2427]

Are you suggesting that every single time someone talks today, they get mad? No one talks calmly anymore? What kind of logic is that. There were horrible people back then, and there are horrible people now. There were great people back then, and there are great people now.

[@matt.oconnor]

Men can still do it, just that SJWs yell and scream to try to drown the good ones out

[@dfwai7589]

@@matt.oconnor why do you have to be that guy? Like you understand that by the dictionary definition Fred Rogers was a social justice warrior?

[@Seras99]

Joel Atwater Fred was never ever a SJW in his life. Not sure about the social justice aspect but Fred would had taken it any day but in a much different aspect. No violence but peace. Something that the SJWs lack on.

[@dianahenne8736]

@@Seras99 My friend, have you ever sat down and had a conversation with an "SJW"? One of the things I greatly respected about Mr. Rogers was his ability and willingness to sit down and have an open-hearted conversation with someone, regardless of their political beliefs. I feel that you need to open your heart, rather than scapegoating people you don't like.

[@tearbag]

For those who downvoted this video, Mr Rogers still likes you and thinks you’re special

[@insufficientdata9845]

tearbag ... 168 people aren't our neighbors!!

[@nickstav08]

Nick Boyle but they are Mr. Rogers

[@jlcollins7673]

tearbag right!? I saw the thumbs down and wondered what the hell they could possibly be thinking!

[@r.girouard5886]

:D

[@The5thAstronaut]

whoa

[@randalwung8715]

Alternate Infinity War ending: Fred Rogers sings the control song to Thanos who then starts crying, hands over the Infinity Gauntlet, and receives a gentle hug.

[@christophersanders3252]

"This puts a smile on my face!"

[@zachlor4579]

And then Thanos decides to be a hero and help pass on Mr. Rogers's teaching.

[@meatwadsprlte]

In the post credit scene of "A beautiful day in the neighborhood", Bob Ross is shown painting, starting the Cinematic Universe of PBS.

[@IndigoStorm27]

@@zachlor4579 Mr.Thanos' neighborhood.

[@zachlor4579]

@@IndigoStorm27 won't you be his neighbor?

[@annseven7166]

Not even a sarcastic old politician could stand up to Mr. Rogers' disarming charm. Who could resist such sheer passion and sincerity?

[@minnesotajames1]

These 6 minutes changed the lives of tens of millions of kids in America. This was his moment and the man rose to the occasion. I always knew Mr. Rogers as the nice man that cared about me as a child. Now in my 40s I see him as who he really was. A hero.

[@floydx492]

Skara Brae Man ....well said! I am also in my forties and have wonderful memories of watching Mr. Rogers on WQED in Pittsburgh! One of my favorites was the time they showed how the crayons were made LoL! Good luck to you bro! I wish you well!

[@bikerdude6119]

27 and always looked forward to watching mr roger. When coming ho.e from school good memories....

[@208jdog]

If mister Rodgers saw this he would probably say something like "what is a hero, its a 4 letter word that is no diffrent than kind, evil, good, love. Its not the word its what u do with the title that really matters" or something like that, i dont personally know the correct words to describe him what is the kindest most honorable title a single human can hold now duplicate that by how many diffrent episodes he did now add the ammount of reruns his show aired and just throw in an added infinite for the ability of the internet to pirate and share his shows that is how honerable and respected mister rodgers is

[@maleekaalbarran7671]

I am 30 and I also loved watching his shows as a child. He was such a pure kind hearted soul. We need more like him today that actually care about people instead of only caring about what will bring them the most income.

[@surfbug1]

Me too! I remember watching him as a child. I'm 56....it's Nov 2019. Mr Rogers was such a nice man. He was our friend, and my friend too!

[@silentbob5551]

I feel senator Pastore is another hero in this story. He had the intelligence and the empathy to have an open mind. To really listen to what Rodgers was saying, to consider his point of view, and to change his own stance on the issue. Today's politician would say, "Agreeing with you would be viewed as crossing party lines and your views are opposed to my party's president. I don't care what you say; you can go pound some clay." This type of true governing is sorely needed today.

[@Sm-vf2cm]

Pastore was a notorious hard head senator and the fact that rogers got him to listen is incredible in itself

[@shaybob1711]

You are 100% correct. Without that 20 million Mr Rogers Neighborhood would have been far smaller and there is a good chance it would have only reached a fraction of the people it did. To be fair, they were going to give him $10 million due to the war but he was arguing for the full $20, but that still would have had a huge impact on the size of the Neighborhood. His show definitely had a positive impact on me growing up in the 80s so I cant imagine how many lives Mr Rogers actually impacted during his lifetime. Imagine if he never had the chance to reach a national audience.

[@marklee4114]

Pastore was a Democrat, so he was not defying his party or opposing the president (Nixon was a Republican).

[@qtfan1121]

The thing is though is that it wasn't just Mr. Rogers Neighborhood that benefited from that $20 million, it was all of PBS. Without that funding who knows what shows we would have been deprived of or what could have happened if PBS decided to seek commercial funding as well as government funding. We might never have gotten Reading Rainbow, Cosmos, The Joy of Painting, Lamb Chops Play-Along, Bill Nye the Science Guy, or even Sesame Street. These 6 minutes of testimony had an incalculable impact on nearly 50 years of programming that has reached and touched the lives of so many.

[@shaybob1711]

That is a damn good point and one I never thought of, but you are absolutely correct. Mr. Rogers influenced countless children but so did the other programs you mentioned. Thank you for bringing this up.

[@chase_h.01]

Honestly watching him disarm adults is infinitely more impressive and fascinating.

[@gewalfofwoofia8263]

Ikr, and he's not even trying!

[@athousandpins]

For real. When he spoke, everyone listened. That senator immediately deferred to him, all in. As we were watching as children

[@serfboreds]

Right? His ability to defuse and direct others towards positivity is nothing less than magical, and his humility is deafening.

[@TheDJMysterE]

He speaks to the child in us all....straight to core of who we are. Beings who need love

[@hugostiglitz4215]

That's because most adults are children. Take a look around, when I was a child I thought a 40 year old was a composed and well-rounded adult. Now I am 40 years old and I see other 40-somethings as regressed children! Self-absorption, narcissism, sociopathic behavior is on the rise. You can thank the think-tanks for that. People advertising themselves on social media, this me me me bs! My comfort spot is anywhere where there's no people! Society is disintegrating

[@theodorebear6714]

"Speak softly but carry a big stick" -Theodore Roosevelt Sometimes, there are men who have so much power in gentle words that they don't even need more than their own sincerity.

[@JC-ks3yk]

Mr. Rogers commanded respect and attention, and he he did it WITHOUT raising his voice or slamming a tabletop with his fists. He did it without one word or even a hint of belligerence. In just a few short minutes, with his calm, gentle demeanor he turned an adversarial congressman into a fan and ensured that millions of children would grow up with TV shows that were fun and educational. We owe Mr. Rogers a debt beyond money. We owe it to him to learn the lessons he taught us and pass them on so that one day we can all live in a beautiful neighborhood.

[@SilencedRage]

Great words.

[@markthompson8588]

J C perfect statement ....gave me goose bumps just reading it.....J C it’s obvious that Mr Rogers taught you and taught you well.....Well said

[@iRazorTV]

It's worked against someone that can give respect. The problem nowadays is that if you speak this slowly to someone, you won't garner respect, you won't even get a word in. because the other party won't want to listen. They'll get 20 arguments in before you manage to finish your sentence. : (

[@sexychula19]

Say what you want but sometimes a little aggression is needed not saying it was needed here though but in general

[@frankmid8515]

I make my kids watch PBS kids instead of KZbin its educational

[@tenslein8977]

This Senate hearing is like a scene out of a movie. I've never seen someone be persuaded so quickly.

[@BrandonFrancey]

Or at all. Most senators have already decided what they are going to do, hearings are just a formality before they vote yes or no.

[@TNTspaz]

Honestly they just got lucky that Pastore was the one who was leading the hearing. He was very active and educated on entertainment legislation before there really even was regular entertainment legislation.

[@vnie1988]

It must have felt like being hit by a freight train of genuine kindness

[@psychedelicpython]

Apparently it was a 2 day thing.

[@pendragon_cave1405]

It's the way Pastore's voice changes as the conversation goes on... He goes from being rough and belligerent to softer and open and curious. Mr. Rogers had a power that only comes from genuine, deep kindness.

[@amygoldstein3771]

Six months later on November tenth, Sesame Street aired for the first time on PBS. I don't think that would have happened if not for Mr. Rogers testimony.

[@RoyalKnightVIII]

Maybe or the state managed to co-opt Roger's message to their own ends www.counterpunch.org/2016/03/21/obey-the-cookie-monster-sesame-street-and-social/

[@glennfeuer7408]

As Marvin Gaye used to say, "Right On".

[@jamesdodge7268]

I missed out on all of those great PBS shows as we didn't have those channels I'm sure the Electric company benefited from Fred Roger's as well.

[@MrGabeanator]

Yep

[@madflava21]

I didn't realize that. That's incredible.

[@sandrasaysyolo6438]

It’s 2024 and I’ve recently decided that the limited screen time my 14 month old has, will be watching his show exclusively. Nothing else compares.

[@lilkrispi9640]

Judge: im cutting ur money Mr rogers: i have a song for you Judge: well i do like songs

[@millennialskeleton2504]

@HearthCricket shut up, don't act like ur so smart

[@millennialskeleton2504]

@HearthCricket nice of you to comment 5 hours later, that just be how long you had to think to write that whole response.

[@natef1315]

@MillenialSkeleton Go drink some Soy, child and scamper off to that special feelz place from whence you came

[@lilkrispi9640]

HearthCricket while i do agree that millennial skeleton is being a bit harsh i also think that u could have handled it nicer as the response u gave to me was a little rude but i understand that wasnt your intentions

[@millennialskeleton2504]

@@lilkrispi9640 "a bit harsh"

[@jowbloe3673]

"I have a prepared statement that will take 10 minutes to read, but I'd rather just talk." In what world did this take place? Must be a nice neighborhood. Imagine this happening here today.

[@malkuth1974]

It can happen today. Look how many people today are still effected by Mr Rogers and he how treats everyone. We don’t need another Mr Rogers we all just need to listen to what he taught us, and start following it.

[@Vanlifecrisis]

Today the chair would be reading a paper and ignoring rogers entirely as he would already made up his mind and wouldn't be willing to consider any other outcome or perspective. Go watch nadler preside over hearings, its disgusting.

[@lapinbeau]

Heheh... I can't imagine it happening today. I just.... can't. ._.

[@lapinbeau]

@Offworlder1 Or more likely, the turn to bigotry and orange politicians who enable it. :(

[@lapinbeau]

@Offworlder1 The WORLD needs him bigtime. But sadly he is dead. :(

[@fortepiano4491]

When you max out your character's personality traits and the end boss is a cakewalk.

[@tjrizvi251]

New Vegas with 100 speech.

[@rakkasaniron1696]

@@tjrizvi251 I was thinking the exact same thing the entire time watching this.

[@OneNeverEnds]

"I think it's wonderful....". This whole speech is incredible, but something touches me the way Pastore says that immediately after Mr. Rogers finishes telling him the lyrics helping children cope with anger. It was the "say no more" moment....he became a fan, but also a man, and probably an inner child that needed to hear that. I too think it's wonderful.

[@golden-sun]

Well you could tell he was abused as a child cause he was acting like one before hand. He struck a nerve

[@scaggly9239]

Same here. I loved that response.

[@TheeKittyPie]

Pastore before: 😒 Pastore during: 😯 Pastore after: 🌸😊🌸

[@albundy831king]

So very true I like you just the way you are

[@evanextreme6157]

I rather not focus

[@Mxyzptlksac]

He did say he got goosebumps from his testimony

[@drewski1535]

The amazing medicine of Fred Rogers

[@evanextreme6157]

@@drewski1535 Laughter is the best medicine

[@cidshroom]

There's a reason that man's sweater is in the Smithsonian, there's a very good reason.

[@jkc702]

Exactly.

[@iamTW64]

Amen!

[@captainsplifford]

Did you know that his mom made all of those sweaters for him?

[@metal9lover9maniac]

Awesome

[@bluestrike01]

I heard he had tattoos during war and thats why he hides his whole why he hides his whole body and even arms in a sweater.

[@ObiWanBillKenobi]

“Do you narrate it?” I think that’s the moment you could tell the senator was sold. :)

[@eefsss4603]

ObiWanBillKenobi I know💗. He was like “I want to continue listening to you speak so I will give you 20 million”

[@skooby_doobie_doonkann3334]

ObiWanBillKenobi I agree. He has now been sold on what Fred does for children.

[@camerapunk4109]

I think he was sold when he asked how long was this program and would like to see it 😁

[@RenegadeShepard69]

I actually think he was sold even earlier when Fred spoke about dealing with feelings that can come from every day family interactions instead of violent solutions to them or something like that. That was the hook for me at least, and when I saw the senator open up. Something about how he explained was so simple yet so effective.

[@gameshowguy2000]

Senator, FYI, the host is not always the narrator, and the narrator is not always the host.

[@davidthorp01]

May I point out the first thing we hear him say here is; “May I use this?” He spoke with manners first, a truly polite and kind man. I miss him dearly.

[@charryb78]

“What do you do with the mad that you feel?” We’re still trying to figure this out. Wish we had Fred Rogers in 2019.

[@cess4089]

cbincle we do in hundreds of episodes. Let’s use the work he did.

[@theroadtocosplayandcomicco5840]

I need him back in my life. I remembered that everyday after school I go home to watch him.

[@DragonmasterCire]

@@michaeloneil2379 Trump becoming the President is the backlash of the Left going more radical. Obama was supposed to be the great unifier and instead, under his presidency, this country got more divided than ever. President Trump's message of Make America Great Again is one of trying to unify that divide. Race, Religion, Sexual Orientation, Age none of that matters because, in the end, we are al Americans. The Main Stream Media has done a disservice, they will not give him 1 positive commit. He brought about bi-partition Criminal Justice reform and the media only reported on the Jesse Smullet hoax. He brought about VA choice and VA accountability yet none of the MSM will touch it. The US Economy is in record-breaking numbers. We have seen the stock market beat their own records yet you will never hear about it. Lowest unemployment in our countries recorded history at 3.9% Medium household income increased to the highest ever recorded numbers. Yet the MSM will only call him a racist xenophobic, misogynistic, Islamophobic,..ect. Yes, most Americans will agree that he Tweets a lot of dumb things. Imagine if you would if the media covered him fairly, attacked him when he does things badly. Praise him when he does things well how different things would be today.

[@hagamapama]

A lot of what Mr. Rodgers did is timeless. and it's still being aired today

[@fabianlightsdasky4483]

We got Daniels tiger neighborhood!!

[@Lovuschka]

Today we know that those 20 million dollars were very well invested.

[@juliavilla8088]

Amen to that sweetheart Amen!!

[@benny2427]

Mister Rogers neighborhood saves lives ❤️

[@Pure_Imagination_728]

Fred Rogers was a genius with very high social and emotional intelligence. A brilliant communicator and highly persuasive. What a sharp mind and a pure heart.

[@ImGazu]

I'm 23 now and hearing his voice saying "I like you just the way you are" STILL makes me feel better about myself

[@stevarino1989]

SO much better than that Bruno Mars song. I want to rip my ears out whenever I hear it. Anyway yes we need more people like Fred Rogers in this world. It's sad how some jerks still aren't even moved by a little kindness though.

[@loosenut23]

Maybe they just need more kindness. :)

[@wpeek]

Biggle Cox 😭❤️😭

[@brianparks2039]

Biggle Cox I watch this guy every day to help build in me what I never got as a kid and I'm 36. I look forward to it especially when I'm in a foul mood. Watch how he brings out the "Mr. Rogers" in the senator. Great stuff man.

[@AR-mm6so]

Add 15 years to that and nothing changes.

[@alexandermatveev5744]

Never in my life have I seen this man before. I got here by some random KZbin surfing. I got goosbumps and cried. He is what we all need today. I am Russian and his words are just precious to all of us on the planet.

[@XOXObeautifulcrazysexybitch]

Alexander Matveev Welcome to Mister Rodgers' Neighborhood 😉💜

[@ryansuggs5556]

That's awesome! Everyone should hear the tender voice of Mr Rogers speak his words of empathy. Glad you were able to find him. He was definitely a genuine caring soul.

[@cmclayton1986]

His television show touch us as children to be kind to one another. And how to resolve issues through talking not violence.

[@daninespencer282]

Alexander Matveev I hope you have checked out his show. I grew up on this stuff and I can't tell you what he means to my generation (and others).

[@cainabel615]

The world needs more men like this today. If we had them, the world would be a much better place.

[@drkyboi]

6:10 Probably the most violence Mr. Rogers ever did was lightly bang that table

[@huhulili9021]

The biggest act of Mr Roger was change a whole generation, warms the heart of many and made the world a slightly better place to live in

[@mattstryker2886]

@@nietzschesghost8529 Oh well, he is still badass lol

[@TheOneAndOnLEE.]

Did you ever see him throw a tent tho 🤣

[@Karmy.]

He beat the crap out of some clay because Mr McFeely made him mad

[@spicyapplejuice9099]

@@Karmy. lmao I saw that

[@roddiener1235]

People say 'we need him today'...the thing is, he's in every one of us. In some folks he's buried deep within and may never surface, but for the vast majority of people walking this earth, he's there, within us all and so wanting to be there for others each and every day. Fred Rogers was one the greatest humans to ever walk this earth. Thanx Fred.

[@maicey_t.]

It's in every one of us to be wise Find your heart Open up both your eyes We can all know everything Without ever knowing why It's in every one of us By and by

[@thomassicard3733]

His spirit lives through so many of us.

[@featherelfstrom8405]

All you have to do is walk into a space filled with people, start singing "And when you wake up ready to say 'I think I'll make a snappy new day!' " then see who snaps their fingers twice.

[@aden0chr0me0]

*BEST COMMENT!*

[@aden0chr0me0]

👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@Jay-Jones]

It just hit me. This dude is the reason my self-worth is so high.

[@HarmoniChris]

Good on you, brother.

[@NGC_290]

He would probably be so pleased to hear you say that. :)

[@Jay-Jones]

@@NGC_290 We're his legacy

[@melissanevin5034]

@@Jay-Jones yes we are Jarrell. Even if his show was playing in the background, you heard his message. I truly believe that Fred Rogers would be proud to know you heard him. I feel like you, for real. I'm a white, 49 year old woman, grew up in Philadelphia and now live in New Jersey. And I feel like you. What a wonderful world we live in! You have a great weekend Jarrell Jones!

[@Jay-Jones]

@@melissanevin5034 hey thanks! You as well

[@mlight8443]

"We dont have to bop someone on the head to make drama in the screen" "I think that it's much more dramatic that two men can be working out their feelings of anger, much more dramatic than showing gunfire." Proceeds to do just that with the senator.

[@ayannag4760]

M Light He totally did! Great observation.

[@jeong-inlee9470]

great comment!

[@xtzyshuadog]

*It's ridiculous how 1969 he's talking about 2020's continuing concerns of mental health, well before the approach became what it is today.*

[@chrispyfer7721]

"it's great to be able to STOP When you've planned to do something wrong And instead do something else And think of this song" Mr. Rogers' speaking directly to the heart to STOP cutting funding.

[@watchdog304]

PBS should have a 10 foot statue of this man right beside the front entrance of their home office headquarters. He was/is PBS.

[@uni4rm]

Watchdog there IS a statue of him in Pittsburgh. It’s 10’ 10”. He’s tying his shoe. www.pittsburghmagazine.com/9-things-you-may-not-know-about-the-mister-rogers-statue/

[@Salman.khan786]

1SLUGGO1 You just made my day.

[@Broni34life]

funnily enough Fred Rogers wouldn't care to have a statue of himself

[@freddymarcel-marcum6831]

The BLM/Antifa mob would tear it down because it's a white guy.

[@wv4776]

Freddy Marcel-Marcum The Devil himself wouldn’t touch that statue in a harmful way

[@forrestrush4720]

"That feelings are mentionable and manageable" such succinct and powerful words still more than ever needing to be heard.

[@moniquecummings869]

Just incredible to see Senator Pastore's attitude shift from grumpy to being in complete awe of Mister Rogers and granting him 20 million dollars all in under 7 minutes.

[@skooby_doobie_doonkann3334]

Monique Cummings that was a sight of humanity and it's just one example of how all of us have good in them

[@electrictroy2010]

It’s also a sign how “great men” can make a decision do quickly. They go with their innate instinct about other human beings .

[@rafthethinker4948]

I seriously believe fred is either an angel or has some hypnotic power or something, look at his eyes

[@protamine4]

Senator Pastore was a ball breaker but Fred Rogers tamed him and saved PBS in six minutes with his kindness and sincerity.

[@BossHoggBroDog]

protamine4 you can imagine 60s-70s politicians were a rough and tumble crowd. So were the PBS heads I assume. This may have been the first genuine voice Pastore had ever heard in a hearing

[@lonewolf333]

How to learn programming in 30 days? Shit, how about "save PBS in six minutes" by Mr. Rogers

[@Mugen0445]

You cannot break the balls on Mr Rogers. No one can.

[@charliepea]

This single man saved millions of children and parents while heartwarming the future generations in just 6 minutes. It's really how powerful a formal yet meaningful talk could be.

[@davinawonderling9361]

Fred Rogers was a gem❤️

[@mattheweagle223]

We need someone like him now

[@anklebiter9116]

I'm old but he saved me. Long time ago.

[@statisticallysound]

And a reminder that even 50% of Congress are absolute ghouls that want to cut the tiny amount of money we spend in public educational broadcasting and neglect future generations

[@northernsnow6982]

Damn people give a lot of power to their televisions. What could this one show do, to save "millions of children"? Do parents from the United States not control what their children watch? Is this really the only show that dealt with real topics, for children, in US?

[@shawnstatzer95]

Some people would have said to "protect him at all cost, but in reality, he protected us at all cost.

[@gnomesanemann6705]

Fred Rogers was an actual, modern day Saint. The world is a poorer place without him.

[@alexm7627]

Everyone who has a relationship with Jesus Christ, anyone who is born again, is a modern day saint

[@mattheweagle223]

Jesus Christ doesn't exist, never did. FRED EXISTED

[@mattheweagle223]

Stop excusing shittiness with your stupid fairy tales. Just be a good person

[@Brando550]

@@mattheweagle223 just an fyi, Fred was an ordained Presbyterian minister before he created his show for PBS. I wonder what you would say to him about Jesus if Fred was still around.

[@mattheweagle223]

@@Brando550 there isn't shit to say

[@tek512]

Mr. Rogers was so far ahead of his time that we still haven't caught up.

[@davidcrambell8437]

word.

[@James-xy7ot]

And sadly, probably never will 😔

[@endergamer7483]

Someone already commenting on how in the late sixties he was talking about mental health in children and in 2022 we are still realizing how mental health in kids is extremely important

[@derekwarr8567]

and we never will

[@hebejeebee]

He reminds me of the way a Buddhist monk speaks. Quiet, calm, thoughtful... have a listen to any of Thich Nhat Hanh's recordings and see if you agree :)

[@celeste5508]

"...it's much more dramatic that two men could be working out their feelings of anger, much more dramatic, than showing something of gunfire."

[@toastbuster9050]

Very true

[@godofwater1234]

Brokeback mountain

[@Goldenbane]

@@toastbuster9050 When I hear that, I can't help but think of "12 Angry Men." There's no guns, I don't think even a punch is thrown (although I think one juror tries to strangle another) but it is men working out their feelings of anger and bias, and I think it's one of the most dramatic movies ever made.

[@TiStardust]

Richard Klosterman You reminded my 17-year-old brain of 7-year-old me’s interest in watching 12 Angry Men. Thank you. It’s been a decade waiting.

[@surflord1839]

I can’t even think about Fred Rogers without tearing up.

[@aminaj.7032]

Me too

[@Hollowsmith]

This is back when politicians gave earnest considerations to arguments, rather than lobbyists having already purchased their decisions.

[@capo328]

Depressing how true that is.

[@Rippd_Bagel]

Politics have always been like this

[@DayOldMeat]

Actually, Pastore had already made his mind up and likely was being lobbied. This is a bent politician trying to push an agenda having his mind changed by a convincing argument. That makes it all the more powerful, I think.

[@lividbutton2813]

definitely not true

[@mrzpear8828]

Lividbutton do you support trump?

[@ImHandlingIt]

"If we can make it clear that feelings are mentionable and manageable, we will have done a great service for mental health."

[@Brianpm77]

E M coral coral and gingercoralandginger

[@jlcollins7673]

E M this quote is everything.

[@yukikanegawa7470]

I'm a senior in high school and I'm really depressed everything is a struggle and Mr.Rodgers makes me cry because I didn't know people that wholesome. If people listened to me and my problems instead of just dismissing them as "kid problems" that I'd outgrow I would be a better healthier version of myself.

[@davidhuser8177]

If that was mister rogers' mission, then i would say he made an impact alright. I love this man and everything he stood for. I watched his movie last night, i was a masterpiece

[@davidhuser8177]

It*

[@fahdh2919]

Mr. Rogers basically, killed Sen. Pastore’s ego and arrogance, with Kindness. Mr. Rogers is what we need in this world more than ever.

[@rainhnr2580]

Apparently you agree with me if you could figure out who i'm talking about without me even saying his name. lol

[@maggiemae7749]

Television is one of the worst forms of communications ever invented

[@rainhnr2580]

@@maggiemae7749 lol What's wrong with television? Television is entertainment ?! Isn't it?

[@h91rex100]

@@maggiemae7749 since you find tv as one of the worst forms of communication, if you were fred rogers, im curious what method youd use instead of tv, to get your message out to millions of kids over 33 years like he did?

[@dr8ke.k500]

A soft answer always turns away wrath.

[@Lomianki06]

As a child growing up near Washington DC, I watched Mr. Rogers on WETA. My dad was an absent father...extreme introvert...lost himself in glasses of vodka every evening after work. He wasn't abusive except though his emotional absence. I realize later in life how it made me wonder "is there something wrong with me? why doesn't my dad want to spend time with me?" Mr. Rogers made me feel each day that I'm ok. There are special, unique things about me. I try to be an involved and interested dad with my 4 kids. I never realized how much he had meant to me until I heard the news that he passed away and I couldn't stop crying. When I watch this video from 1969 (I was born in 1967), I am so grateful that Fred Rogers was so incredibly compelling and convincing that he got the funding for his program and I could start benefiting from it a few years later. How important his program was for me in the absence of a male role model. Thank you Mr. Rogers!

[@douglaslally156]

John Pastore was a senator from my state, Rhode Island. He was known for his impatience and his gruff manner. What Rogers did here was simply amazing. Pastore was melted and humbled, and of course did the right thing restoring the funding.

[@cliffordernest7825]

Douglas Lally John O Pastore got his names on a couple signs in Cranston out of the deal.

[@spencermarley7990]

I love it. In the beginning of the video he was sarcastic and dismissive. By the end he was utterly humbled and happy to give Mr. Rogers the funding he needed. That was the power of Fred Rogers love for the world. Mankind did not deserve him.

[@SNESdrunk]

This is a lightning bolt of inspiration. And it has nothing to do with money. It has everything to do with two opposing sides coming to an agreement, through peaceful means.

[@CGJUGO80]

SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSNES DRUNK!

[@FallouFitness_NattyEdition]

SNES Drunk, I didn't know you liked Mr. Rodgers.

[@SuPeRNinJaRed]

Yes SNES drunk, I always thought a Mr. Rodgers Saves the Neighborhood was a missed opportunity for a SNES style beat-em-up or should I say, "Hug" em up!!!

[@CC-bm3wb]

@@FallouFitness_NattyEdition Who doesn't? The man is a national treasure :)

[@tmux]

The dichotomy of leadership!!!!!!

[@phogue1]

So i want to make sure we understand something about Pastore. I have seen comments that he was hateful, but he certainly was not. Pastore was famously impatient, but he had a huge impact on the country in the years he served, first as Rhode Island's governor, then as one of its senators for 26 years. As governor, he had a great deal of responsibility for today's system of unemployment insurance, which was not in all states and certainly not standard. As a senator, he fought hard and famously for the Nuclear Test Ban treaty as well as efforts to stop nuclear proliferation. He was also a leader in the passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. He was a little short with Fred Rogers (physically as well, since he was the shortest senator at 5'5" tall), but keep in mind that he allowed that hearing to take place for two days and genuinely get information on whether to restore full funding after it had been slashed in half in the administration's budget. Pastore was genuine that he was fed up with depictions of violence on television, and Rogers shared that view. Fred Rogers absolutely won him over by speaking directly and respectfully to him from the heart, but also because Pastore was willing to listen. By the way, Pastore raised a son, John Jr., who would be secretary of the International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War and was one of the physicians who accepted the Nobel Prize for Peace in 1985 on its behalf.

[@FloraWest]

Thanks for this biography!

[@willk4783]

Thanks for the interesting tidbit of history. Whenever I have heard this video referenced, they always paint the Senator as usually a dismissive and mean person. Seems that he is legitimately open to hearing good arguments and is concerned about the countrys well being. Good to see that sometimes our legal system can produce people like this, gives me some faith

[@avataraang7760]

Thank you. It really helps when you know even just a little bit of the background.

[@therealMuNansen]

Thanks for this.

[@yptrumpet]

This is the best thing I've read in KZbin comments, ever. I have never expected to become so well educated by scrolling down. Truly, 2020 is a mixed bag of woes and wonders.

[@itsamindgame9198]

I think what has always struck people and affected them greatly about Mr Rogers is that he was absolutely genuine. His compassion and concern, his grace and forbearance, where not a role or facade. Certainly he worked at them, but precisely because they were so important to him as a person.

[@aden0chr0me0]

Exactly. It's a Barnum and Bailey world, just as phony as it could be.... but not him. Who we saw on television was exactly who he _really_ was. He is as genuine and authentic as it gets and we are so privileged to have been able to get to know him, watch his show, I looked forward to it every morning and always learned something from it. Genius is an understatement, he was talking about things WAY before they were talked about. He knew how vitally important it all was, before everyone else did. He was ahead of his time, and while noone is perfect he's as close as it gets!

[@philipcrush7606]

Was anyone else struck by the fact that Mr. Rogers was absolutely worried? Throughout his entire speech you could see him wringing his hands. I just find that so amazing, because we always remember him as being such a nice, confident person, but to see him clearly scared and yet still able to calmly and clearly voice his point and ultimately convince Sen. Pastore of his point just blew me away.

[@joelg83]

To quote another hero: Fear is a super power. Fear can make you faster and cleverer and stronger. And one day, you're gonna come back to this barn, and on that day, you're going to be very afraid indeed. But that's okay because if you're very wise and very strong, fear doesn't have to make you cruel or cowardly - Doctor Who

[@WinkDaMan07]

0:54 Senator Pastore: Will it make you happy if you read it? Mister Rogers: I’d just like to talk about it if that’s alright. You can tell by the tone of his voice that he was offended by the Senator’s remark there

[@Terrapin22]

He was really nervous speaking there. I read somewhere that he hadn't wanted to speak, but someone had convinced him to.

[@constancemiller3753]

He was holding alot of children in his hands and he knew it. Twenty million dollars was a drop in the bucket compared to the military's 1969 budget or the Apollo space program.

[@josiahdonaldson7784]

Fred never really believed in his own self worth. He was at times humble to a fault. He had to be convinced that people wanted to hear from him after 9/11 happened. He originally thought no one cared what he thought at that point. He eventually made a statement on TV, but it was after much coaxing. I think that is the reason for the hand wringing...

[@thewab1974]

3:54 - "And I feel that if we, in public television, can only make it clear that feelings are mentionable and manageable, we will have done a great service for mental health." Fred Rogers truly WAS ahead of his time.

[@jonathanrl469]

YES! Can't believe this was 54 years ago!

[@theyrecousins]

Absolutely! He always tried, on his program, to foreground a recognition of one's feelings and then a constructive unpacking of them. Such a monumentally useful type of guidance he lent.

[@spercamogren]

Not necessarily ahead of his time, but he sure wanted all of time to feel cared for.

[@patrickmanway290]

😂😢1a🎉8qq😂😂pl 2:48 😂i😢😢❤I 3q❤q 😅u

[@teddicruise4107]

Firstly, to honor this wonderful soul, investing in public television. If everybody downloads the PBS app and signs up for PBS Passport - which can be for as little as $5/month - they'll get to watch the most wonderful shows whenever they feel like it! I love Masterpiece Mystery and Finding My Roots more than anything else on the airwaves. If enough of us do this, no one... not the hardest, most callous of hearts in D.C. can de-fund Public Broadcasting, nor silence the voice of the kindest man ever to imbue life in characters such as Lady Elaine Fairchild, Donkey Hodey, among others. All this he did simply so that one more child would feel at home in their own skin and, ultimately, in the world. I can't think of a higher calling.

[@jakejelsone5059]

You know what blows my mind? A politician that actually listens and thinks objectively and makes a decision rather than being immediately dismissive. Seems to happen less and less nowadays.

[@karazor-el6085]

The Wikipedia entry notes that, although Pastore was an impatient person, he said Rogers' speech gave him "goosebumps." Which is, when you think about it, a natural reaction :)

[@Haygirl345]

That Guy beautifully stated!

[@maicey_t.]

I love him. Straightforward, factual, and obviously passionate about what he speaks of. In only a few minutes, and without raising his voice or being disrespectful, he is able to bring about such change. What I wouldn't give for people to always speak to each other in such a respectful and compassionate way.

[@bbteala1]

This is the BEST comment on here. So eloquently said.

[@BlackBarney]

God I miss Fred Rogers. Actually proactively talking about children's mental health in 1969, amazing.

[@ShimaS-0079]

Then we stopped caring and started doping them up on pills

[@mycroft16]

Fred Rogers was so very far ahead of his time. The world wasn't ready for him, and we probably won't ever deserve him. His voice just soothes and calms and demands that you pay attention. Willingly. You want to listen when he speaks. And his passion and sincerity make it impossible to turn away.

[@tek512]

This man was so far ahead of his time that we *still* haven't caught up to him.

[@ayebraine]

He trained with the best and very purposefully - he was simultaneously a pastor (and good priests do understand psychology very well and try to help their charges with life decisions), and AFAIK studied in the most progressive sociology and psychology of development faculty in the US, where people like Benjamin Spock also worked. I take it he was quite literally a star of childhood development, not only in how visible he managed to become, but in the depth of his understanding of the field as well.

[@naritruwireve1381]

I feel he has helped to make mental health such a widely and openly talked about topic today in the states. Now many talk about their mental health and it's wonderful. It's no longer nearly as shameful to struggle with mental health as it was previously

[@clipse39]

"Mister Rogers didn't die. God just needed a neighbor."

[@bikerdude6119]

Lmao good memories bro!!

[@TheDonOfNY]

Damn gods a dick he gave him stomach cancer so he could hang out with him

[@TrappedSKuaD]

How many times have you copy and pasted this comment?

[@zay8899]

Kelpy G. Wow

[@Mike-fo4iq]

My first reading of a stolen comment. Cherry has been busted

[@ryancontino9752]

And 6 months later, Sesame Street debuted on PBS. Thank you, Mr. Rogers.

[@PieFights]

and also Mr. Rogers appeared on Sesame Street for one episode so hows that for a cameo on two PBS shows

[@charliebrown4799]

I grew up with Mr. Rogers. He taught me how to tie my shoes, use a zipper, and most importantly, he taught me how to believe in myself. I'm crying right now watching this. He truly was a saint and way ahead of his time. I miss him so much. RIP Mr. Rogers and thank u for everything you've done for us. The world is not the same without u

[@daniellos333]

He seems humble, simple and sincere, almost like a child in his pleading. It teaches you a lot about how to defuse an escalating hostile situation -- let go of the ego for a moment and be the bigger man.

[@spacecitygta8168]

Daniel H a soft answer turneth away wrath

[@metal9lover9maniac]

For so many years I just wanted to get back at people who said something rude or inconsiderate, but I got tired of feeling worse for doing that. It took a long time, and sometimes I still take the quick and easy path to anger, but I'd like to think the majority of the time I'm able to let things go and not say something in response that makes things worse. People like Mr. Rogers are perfect role models.

[@ctmagnus760]

"A soft answer turneth away all wrath." There's a man who lived his beliefs, and showed all of America how's done in a few minutes.

[@koolmckool7039]

@R A R In the end it's them who hurt.

[@pattyscake7938]

Amen 💜

[@Jam77229]

So if I ask nicely for god to not punish me for not believing in him he won't send me to hell? Your scripture and religion contradicts itself and is fundamentally immoral

[@koolmckool7039]

@@Jam77229 Considering that you're just using it as a get out of jail free card, it doesn't work that way.

[@ctmagnus760]

@@Jam77229 OK since you've missed my context here (I wasn't even being particularly religious but honestly thinking on a cosmic scale of the way to address people). Raise your voice or don't. Up to you.

[@captainswan3079]

His kindness makes me cry in the middle of such a currently ugly world.

[@themanwhosucksatgames3078]

Well when ever I see what is going on in the world and makes me sad, I always go to a Bob Ross or Mr Rogers video and always makes me happy :)

[@echad6259]

Same.

[@AndrewBarsky]

You’re not alone

[@454aubrey]

Working as a cart washer and cashier at the local grocery store, I see a few kind people out of a hundred rude stares. The acts of kindness that I receive from other people can be a small thank you to driving in the motorized scooters that are for the handicapped customers. They are the people I love to talk about at the end of the day. Remember to be kind, the world needs more kind people!

[@chevyslim4200]

The world has always been ugly, but I cannot disagree

[@shaeVettori]

Mr. Rogers being a beacon for mental health even in the late 60's. Man is something beyond ordinary description. Truly the face of what a human being should be. I miss him.

[@JangoBunBun]

Fred Rogers is a man that nobody has anything bad to say about.

[@idanoreilly]

How I wish that were true, but I've heard many bad things about him through the years. People with hard hearts are too numb to see the wonderful soft heart of Fred Rogers.

[@idanoreilly]

When I was a youth, all kids in school would diss on him. I even had a dream that a building was going to be imploded, and those very kids thought it was funny he was in there - but I took it upon myself to go in and rescue him, and we made it out just on time! I truly would have done that; he was a hero worth risking my life for.

[@kaciedlin4315]

Idan O'Reilly You're an American hero

[@spacemanx9394]

that sounds like a challenge

[@calebcauley2220]

Alex Cuevas wd

[@richard3921]

I bet Mr. Rogers could've talked Thanos out of snapping half of Universe population.

[@FordFracture]

I bet he could

[@nicocrestmere9688]

Thanos would just stomp and cry and receive a hug.

[@0111pokemon]

These comments are gold

[@brendanburgess2071]

Thanos: The strongest sacrifice requires the strongest will Mr. Rogers: You made this day a special day by just you being you Thanos: *Tears*

[@snipersev0743]

Yes, he would've talk no jutsu him out of wiping out half the universe in an instant

[@evanfaust8672]

This man is the closest thing I’ve ever seen to a living Saint. He was so kind and genuine it’s almost unthinkable for a human to act that way. He was a true gift to the Earth.

[@ChrisHJohnson93]

Trust me if he was a Catholic his ass 100% would have made been one

[@muhamadfaiq6642]

@@ChrisHJohnson93 just shut up don't put religion in it

[@wilmanman7783]

@@muhamadfaiq6642 He wasn’t, To be sainted you have to be roman catholic

[@NotJoegoldberg]

@@wilmanman7783 you shouldn't take it literally. also, mother Theresa was/is a saint but its well documented thats she's a vile, horrible human being.

[@alonzibb5397]

It’s not unthinkable for humans to act this way. This is a healthy attitude to have towards our fellow humans: kindness, empathy, understanding of others. Sadly, There is a sickness, an idea virus that has spread throughput our civilization. That cruelty and being unfeeling is strength, that we should only care about ourselves, use people as means to our ends, seek power over others and disregard emotions and avoid them. This virus has twisted ideas about strength and caused so much suffering. Strength is kindness and understanding of others, it is treating others how they wish to be treated, it is understanding oneself, knowing ones capacities, cultivating values and having patience and civility towards and with our fellow humans. How long will we delay to be wise.

[@reycesarcarino4653]

Fred Rogers make you realize just how strict and easy to anger Adults were back in the Day. Simply by speaking his mind in a calm manner he got the attention of toddlers and Adults

[@vaibanez17]

Senate: We dont even know what public broadcasting is, so we better cut it's budget in half. Mr Rogers: It's me. Senate: Oh, here's your money, my bad.

[@laurabedin1121]

LOL! This was brilliant and touching.

[@deepfriedsammich]

@@laurabedin1121 Touching, maybe, in a certain sense, but ideally, the government shouldn't be in charge of art, science, education, anymore than it is authorized to be in charge of religion and the press, and for precisely the same reason. Theoretically, We the People control it; it shouldn't be in charge of presuming to educate, inform, or entertain us.

[@rburp123]

@@deepfriedsammich The government is simply providing another option. And I love that it happens to be a wholesome one. A wholesome option for people like me who grew up without cable or the internet, and had precisely one way to get a positive message from the media: Mr. Rogers's over the air broadcasts. I'm cool with libertarianism to a point, but please try to accept that we are still a society. We are in this together. We are all Mr. Rogers's neighbors, and I can't fault any force in this world that seeks to make us better neighbors, and encourage us to be kind to one another. That $20 million is used every. single. day. by our government to launch massive, expensive missiles, sometimes with a price tag as high as a million a missile. I don't know about you, but I am perfectly happy sacrificing 20 missiles to have a station like PBS that broadcasts quality, positive, happy childhood programming for free for all to see. Including rebroadcasts of classic, timeless programs like Mr. Rogers Neighborhood and Sesame Street. Even accounting for inflation, I still think the cost/benefit analysis in that situation is a very easy one to make. Hell even if it were $100 million, in a nation of 300 million people that's 1/3 of 1 penny per person in taxes to raise that amount. Can you spare a penny?

[@deepfriedsammich]

@@rburp123 That was a very thoughtful answer, thank you. To a certain extent I can agree: if the money government takes from people has to go somewhere, it is infinitely better to have the politicians and bureaucrats spending upon positive, effective, connected, children's television programming like Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood than tragic, pointless, unjust war-making all over the Earth. The problem with government though, is that it's agents and exponents always claim to want the money for Mr. Rogers, and end up spending far more to coerce and manipulate people, when it isn't outright killing them. Some of us are easily tempted to reason that if we have the authority to confiscate resources for good deed 'X,' then we ought to have the authority to do likewise for not so good, but "just as necessary" deed 'Y.' It is the stuff of which slippery slopes are made. I used to watch Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood too, and will not even lie to deny its value. Fred Rogers is definitely a person much in need in the world. He has left some pretty big oxfords/sneakers to fill, and I wonder who will be the one to step into those shoes. You asked if I could and would spare a penny for such programming and, to answer your question, I would voluntarily donate or invest much more than that, and so would many, many other people in America and around the world, for that matter. I put it to you that it is unnecessary to coerce people to support genuinely good purposes and ideas. Such giving has the virtue of being consensual. We are not so cynical and blind to value as people sometimes believe the average human being is. I think Fred Rogers' life is glowing exhibit A evidence of that fact. I think everyone could use a little more faith in themselves and in their neighbors' good will, and natural desire for consensual community. I would think that Mr. Rogers would smile and agree with that.

[@BillCoffin]

I will never, ever tire of this video, not just for Fred Roger's eloquent and heartfelt appeal, but also for Sen. Pastore's willingness to listen and openness to be convinced. "I think you just earned your $20 million" and the applause that followed is a public moment the likes of which seem impossible today, and I deeply hope we can return to it. I am 51 years old. I grew up with Fred Rogers. And even now, hearing him say, the year before I was born, "I like you just the way you are," tears spring from my eyes. It's up to us to pass along what Fred taught us. Our world needs it.

[@sanemind143]

I am 33 years old, and I watched Mr. Roger's Neighborhood when I was growing up. I lived in the country, and was taught a lot of life lessons early in my years. I am an artist by nature, playing music and writing, and after high school, due to the society I was growing up in, many many doors closed, and I had to find my own way. I've never forgotten the lessons Mr. Rogers had taught me, and I find beauty in everyday things; architecture, machines, physics, watching a droplet of water roll down a glass, watching a butterfly play with the flowers. He taught me to take my time, and think through things. I've thought about being an actor or director, and learned to feel things enough so people can see them. The only thing that makes me cry is to see Mr. Rogers saying through the camera to me, is "I like you just the way you are, and I'm so glad that you're my friend." This simple message has given me empathy, sympathy, understanding, and love for all that I see. I know that without Mr. Rogers, I wouldn't be half the man I am today.

[@angelinimartini]

I’m glad you brought up Mr. Pastores “willingness to listen” that is so important. So many times now, peoples peoples mind is already made up. They just don’t listen. Effective communication is reciprocal. This is a great example of that. Oh God Mr. Roger’s was just such an example of how to communicate effectively… I wish the world was more like his vision.

[@gingerdanny]

I am 17 years old and growing up I didn't have anybody who was there for me, nobody to listen, nobody to care. But as I heard the T.V. hissing static, Mister Rogers was always there. Sometimes it feels like there's nobody to trust, and no feeling I could share. But as a kid always causing a fuss, Mister Rogers was always there.

[@mikeyoungblood1642]

Sadly Mr Rogers wouldn’t be given a chance to speak with today’s senate all being bought and paid for by billion dollar corporations and also that the right wing media in this country would deem Mr Rogers a groomer

[@M89020]

We wanna work towards it Bill, from a 29 year old. Some of us are ready to get back to cooperation and no more dogma.

[@rsears78]

In the early 80’s my sister was diagnosed with leukemia. I began to develop a great fear of going to John Hopkins hospital here in Baltimore for long hours every week for her to get her treatments. One day I watched an episode of Mr.Rogers focusing on over coming fears of going to hospitals, he really helped me with that, I thank him for that.

[@johnnyquest9519]

I'm glad you made this about you and not the kids or your sister who had leukemia. 👍

[@ditzfough]

Your comment just made a 34 yr old man siiting in a breakroom at work ball his eyes out.

[@vinny5638]

This is such a beautiful page. I can only hope that every one of us here can become to others a fraction of the kind of lighthouse Mr. Rogers was to us. Thanks for sharing your story Tim!

[@JohnJacksonJohnson]

Plus, he wasn't afraid to tackle subjects like death, divorce, racism, or nuclear war, nor afraid to put it in words that EVERYONE could get. That, and he had a thick skin about being parodied: when the comedian Eddie Murphy first parodied him, he found out, called Eddie Murphy up, and said he laughed about being parodied!

[@kristinphillips777]

He saved my life, when I was young I knew there was something different about me. I wasn’t diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or some of the other things that I’ve had going on until I was in my mid 30s, I never felt loved or excepted by my family I always felt like an outcast. He made my childhood years bearable and he will be missed.

[@redwhiteandvibranium120]

Jesus loves you Kristin 😊

[@lunayoshi]

I wasn't diagnosed with ASD until I was 32 and couldn't figure out why I was so different, why people thought I was weird. I thought I was just a loser. But Mr. Rogers made me feel like I mattered, that the depression that hit me at age 12 (later: Bipolar Disorder) meant I wasn't useless. I can't watch him talk about kids' mental health without crying, because I think without his input, I wouldn't be here today.

[@itsmeeverest]

This guy will probably open the gate of heaven for those who will enter, and greet them by saying, "Hi, won't you be my neighbor?"

[@76Darkcloud]

Good one. Accurate and funny at the same time. Made me laugh.

[@odiltm259]

St. Peter now can take a few days off a week cause he has mr Rogers running the show

[@dankiepoo5673]

guess i'll never get to meet fred rogers then :pepecry:

[@ChristChickAutistic]

Doggone it, I hope so!

[@brady1407]

Now, Mister Saint Peter, I’ll watch the gate for you. You go visit with the other apostles for a few minutes.

[@lennonturner2524]

mr rogers is so amazing that he can even make youtube comments 100% positive

[@N1te5hade]

Well done.

[@TargetedPersona]

Mr Rodgers got that 10 point charisma build

[@standingpineapple6651]

Montelimarr hell yeah

[@xburn315x]

Speech 100

[@ryand.3858]

[SUCCESS] Looks like you just earned the twenty million dollars.

[@cyalknight]

I wouldn't say it is just fancy words, it is the logic and truth and his everything behind it.

[@JohnWilson-gw7kb]

10 - Intelligence

[@Kate-pz8ym]

I’m pregnant with my first child, I hope I can be as compassionate as Mr Rogers with my children. That is my goal. To raise children who are loved and cared for the way Mr Rogers treated children and everyone. What a role model ❤

[@eddiemoney1093]

You can't. No one can. Mr. Rogers didn't have to deal with your kid tearing ass around the house ruining everything. But you can take a deep breath when you want to scream and try and act more like you think he would when your kid paints the wall with nail polish.

[@redwhiteandvibranium120]

Hi Kate, I just wanted to let you know that Jesus loves you. I'm praying that everything goes well with your pregnancy. God bless. 💙

[@kingpiece5705]

It's been 9 months since your comment. I hope all is well.