In the Jan. 29 edition of the Advance we once again devote space to the issue of literacy. It can seem almost inconceivable that today in Canada we have neighbours who are unable to read well enough to comprehend articles in this newspaper or instructions describing even simple tasks. But it happens, and not only to people for whom English is not the first language.
It is heartening, though, to be aware of the programs designed to help overcome what can only be described as an enormous obstacle to function fully and positively in today’s society. I recently read a small piece by a local adult who described his own challenges with illiteracy and the success he had achieved with the help of some very dedicated volunteers. Over a period of several years he has reached a point where his literacy skills have made a huge difference in his life. His description of feeling more confident in all aspects of his life brought me to tears.
As children in a working class neighbourhood in Calgary, my sisters and I always had access to books. Money was scarce, but our parents always found enough to let us purchase a few books from the elementary school catalogue, the daily newspaper landed on our doorstep each morning and we made regular family trips to the nearest public library. My mother, once a schoolteacher, was appalled that the German immigrants who moved in next door didn’t have books in their house. Their three children struggled mightily in school.
Literacy, clearly, should start in the home, with children being read to and encouraged to read. Parents should spend time in making reading fun and exciting. But “should” is an easy word to use, and a judgmental one at that. Kids in any community might be growing up in less than ideal circumstances, in the care of a parent or parents who simply do not have the wherewithal to provide books or encouragement. Chances are their own literacy skills are lacking.
And that is where the idea that it takes a village to raise a child becomes evident. Teachers, literacy specialists and volunteers make huge efforts to foster literacy skills in the children and adults they work with, knowing that the ability to read goes part and parcel with playing a productive, contributing role in a community. Of course, I am preaching to the choir here. If you are reading this column you have literacy skills. But what if you didn’t? How much different would your life look?
Well, first off, there is the stigma. How likely is it that someone without reading skills is going to broadcast their deficit? Some develop remarkable, energy-draining coping skills to avoid being caught out, fearful of being seen as unintelligent or of losing a job. Most often they settle into a less interesting and fulfilling way of life, struggling to make ends meet, not knowing that help is available or not having the courage to seek it out.
Lack of opportunity or early stimulation, learning disabilities and physical challenges can all contribute to illiteracy, which should not be mistaken for lack of intelligence. We are lucky to have among us people who share their time, skills and passion to help others. I think of Linda Price and others who work with refugee families, making enormous commitments to help them learn English, both verbal and written. Or of volunteers like past citizen of the year Henry Schoof, who work tirelessly in reading with students.
Several years ago, I was a guest in an elementary school, talking to kids about reading and writing. I asked several what they liked to read and one quiet fellow said he didn’t read. Not at all, I asked. No, he insisted. Do you read comics, I asked. Yes, he said, but my parents say that’s not reading. My heart sank. Later I pulled him aside and encouraged him to keep reading those comic books. Don’t ever let anybody tell you that you aren’t a reader, I told him, because you are.
For me, literacy is a gift that I have never stopped appreciating. I am grateful for the encouragement I got at home, and for the doors that being able to read and write have opened in my life. My endless curiosity is fulfilled on a daily basis because I am literate. I stand in awe of those who dedicate themselves to improving the literacy of others. And even more so of those who accept their offer of help.
Lorne Eckersley is the publisher of the Creston Valley Advance.