Why Literacy Matters

Of all the things we tend to take for granted, the ability to read is one of the greatest. While many students may struggle to learn to read, most people in the United States achieve basic literacy by the time they reach adulthood. However, literacy rates in the developing world--especially among girls and people living in rural areas--are much lower. Imagine for just a moment what your life might be like if you couldn’t read.

First of all, the world would become extremely difficult to traverse. Regardless of whether you drive, walk, cycle, or take public transportation, the ability to read street and traffic signs is paramount. Imagine how difficult it would be to take the train? Even if you knew your destination by sight alone, you would likely be foiled by the automated ticket machine, or the departure and arrival times.

There are also health risks involved. What if you couldn’t read the warning labels on medicine? Or, if you had a food allergy and couldn’t read ingredient lists? Suddenly, you are at risk of grievous harm.

Making a living would be extremely difficult. Most modern jobs require at least basic literacy. Those that don’t are typically low skill/low pay, and tend to put workers at high risk of bodily injury (meat packaging and agricultural work are high on this list.)

Basic literacy is one of the keys to leading a healthy and successful life in the 21st Century. We hope you will join us in advocating for global literacy this month as we share information about literacy, book recommendations, and much more. We look forward to having you join the conversation, because awareness is the first step to enacting lasting change.