Meaning: The quote "Taking Big Bird away from our five year olds, lunch money away from our ten year olds, job training programs away from our fifteen year olds, and college loans away from our twenty year olds is a disgrace" by John Murray touches on the issue of how government funding cuts can impact different age groups in society. This quote is a powerful statement that highlights the potential consequences of reducing or eliminating social and educational programs that benefit children and young adults.

At the heart of this quote is the idea that children and young adults rely on certain programs and resources to support their development and well-being. "Big Bird" refers to the popular character from the educational children's television program "Sesame Street," which has been a source of learning and entertainment for young children for decades. The mention of taking Big Bird away from five-year-olds suggests the potential loss of educational resources and programming that are crucial for early childhood development.

The reference to taking lunch money away from ten-year-olds underscores the importance of nutrition and access to meals for school-aged children. For many children, school lunch programs provide a vital source of daily nutrition, and any cuts to these programs can have detrimental effects on their health and well-being.

The quote also addresses the impact on teenagers, with the mention of job training programs for fifteen-year-olds. This highlights the importance of providing opportunities for skill development and vocational training to prepare young people for future employment and economic independence. Access to job training programs can play a significant role in shaping the future prospects of young individuals as they transition into the workforce.

Furthermore, the mention of college loans being taken away from twenty-year-olds draws attention to the challenges of accessing higher education. Many young adults rely on financial assistance, such as student loans, to pursue their academic and career aspirations. The potential reduction or elimination of college loan programs can create barriers to higher education and limit the opportunities available to young people seeking to advance their knowledge and skills.

Overall, the quote by John Murray serves as a poignant reminder of the impact that policy decisions and funding cuts can have on the most vulnerable members of society. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of social and educational support systems that are essential for the well-being and development of children and young adults.

In conclusion, the quote effectively conveys the message that depriving children and young adults of essential resources and opportunities is a disgrace. It underscores the need for policymakers to consider the long-term implications of budget cuts and funding decisions on the future generations. By highlighting the potential consequences of these actions, the quote prompts reflection on the societal responsibility to protect and support the well-being of children and young adults.