Communities around the globe commemorate International Literacy Day on Sept. 8. This day reaffirms the pivotal role of literacy in building sustainable societies.
Since its inception in 1967, this annual observance serves as a reminder of literacy’s fundamental importance as a human right and a catalyst for personal and societal development.
This year, the theme “Promoting multilingual education: Literacy for mutual understanding and peace” underscores the cognitive and socio-economic benefits of a multilingual approach to literacy. Across the world, communities are embracing diverse languages as pathways to broader knowledge, skills, and unity.
On Haida Gwaii, Literacy Haida Gwaii has been at the forefront of local literacy efforts for 29 years. Founded in 1995, the organization began with a vision to foster personal development through education and collaboration. Today, Literacy Haida Gwaii offers a comprehensive range of programs tailored to meet the evolving literacy needs of its community.
“Literacy extends beyond reading and writing; it empowers individuals to navigate our complex world effectively,” says Beng Leng Favreau, executive director at Literacy Haida Gwaii.
“From health literacy and financial skills to digital literacy and workplace training, our programs equip learners with essential tools for success.”
The organization’s initiatives include financial literacy workshops, health literacy campaigns, workplace essential skills training, English as a Second Language classes for immigrants, Adult High School upgrading and technology workshops.
Moreover, they support early childhood literacy through partnerships with local health providers and initiatives. Literacy Haida Gwaii funds Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, which provides free books to children under five years old.
Reflecting on the broader impact of literacy in B.C., recent statistics highlight significant challenges: over 700,000 British Columbians face literacy difficulties, impacting daily tasks from understanding newspapers to managing personal finances.
However, improved literacy skills are directly linked to better health outcomes, increased employment opportunities, and enhanced economic prosperity.
“As we mark International Literacy Day, it’s crucial to recognize that literacy is a cornerstone of community well-being,” adds Favreau.
“By fostering literacy in all its forms, we empower individuals and strengthen our community’s fabric.”
Literacy Matters factsheet for B.C.
• More than 700,000 British Columbians have significant challenges with literacy — 16 per cent of British Columbians were at Level 1 literacy or below in 2012.
• 45 per cent of British Columbians aged 16 to 65 may have difficulty understanding newspapers, following instruction manuals, reading health information and other daily living tasks.
• 52 per cent of British Columbians aged 16 to 65 may have difficulty calculating interest on a car loan, using information on a graph, calculating medicine dosage and other daily living tasks.
• Canadians with stronger literacy skills enjoy better health.
• Understanding numeracy is a key factor for managing personal finances.
• Literacy matters for understanding rights and responsibilities.
• Digital literacy helps people access programs and services, and bolsters social connections.
• Strong literacy skills are connected to being employed.
• Stronger literacy skills are associated with earning higher wages.
• Improving literacy skills can increase efficiency and accuracy at work, and can decrease work-related stress.
• Employers need digitally literate employees to increase productivity, boost sales, offer better services and generate revenue.