Wednesday, September 7, 2016

International Literacy Day


In 1965, UNESCO declared September 8 International Literacy Day.  

Schools and organizations around the world have united to raise awareness in the hope that it will bring increased accessibility to education in developing nations. 

The number of children and adults in third world countries who cannot read is staggering.

But I've found you don't have to travel to a third world country to find a lack of literacy.  Look at the statistics in your own country.  Talk to some of the young people who would rather write in emojis or acronyms than real words.  Can they even form a real sentence?  Let's put the spotlight on illiteracy as we raise awareness of this genuine problem.

The materials I used for this spread were an old Christmas card, washi tape, and portions of an Italian to English book page.  I'd love to share my knowledge of this day with those who can't read or write.





I'm delighted that you joined Bleubeard and me today as we prepare to celebrate International Literacy Day.   Please join us at Art Journal Journey where we're celebrating Back to School
 

and Try it on Tuesday where the theme is Children.

12 thoughtful remarks:

Valerie-Jael said...

Love your journal page, and it is really shocking how many people are illiterate, even in 'educated' countries. So many people don't want to read, too, such a pity, it opens up such a treasure trove of knowledge and fun for us. Thanks for another wonderful piece for AJJ, have a lovely day, hugs, Valerie (Need to do some cleaning now before my visitor arrives tomorrow!)

Valerie-Jael said...

Oh yes, and thanks for joining us at TIOT, too!

froebelsternchen said...

Just super Elizabeth--
that would fit the new Moo Mania theme "Alphabet" as well!
I am thrilled about your ideas and how you
put them all into practice!
You are such a fantastic hostess ♥
Thank you for joining us at Try It On Tuesday as well!
You rock!
oxo Susi

pearshapedcrafting said...

Another fabulous idea and a great page! You are so right about the modern way of communicating. My GD's school still have spelling tests but once she gets to High school that all stops. Fortunately all of my grandchildren love reading (if the book is right!) Off for a few days now! Chrisx

pearshapedcrafting said...

Oops! Thanks for your joining us again at Try It On Tuesday! Chrisxx

My name is Erika. said...

I think it is great you are bringing awareness to International Literacy Day. And I think that card was a great format to show it. It looks like one of those Unicef cards with kids from around the world. :) How perfect. Hope your week si going well. Hugs-Erika

chrissie said...

A wonderful idea for today's piece and just right for both challenges

Thank you for joining us again at Try it on Tuesday

Love Chrissie xx

Divers and Sundry said...

I don't remember knowing about Literacy Day :) What a wonderful idea to focus on that subject and to raise awareness. Thank you!

Meggymay said...

A great page today and one that we should all pay more attention to.
I do wonder what damage TV's Computers and phones do to hinder children's learning. Nothing will beat the printed word for me and reading is so important.
Its such a sign of our times that children who don't have access to education really want to learn and yet some who do turn theirs backs on it.
Thank you for sharing this page with us over at TioT's as well.
Yvonne xx

Marjut said...

Lovely page. Thank you for joining us at TioT.

Anonymous said...

Great reminder. We were talking to the concierge at the place we stayed last week and she is retiring soon and wants to teach adult literacy. She knows of so many folks in downeast Maine where we stayed that can't read, shocking but true. We all need a good reminder. xox

Mrs.B said...

A great page Elizabeth, and a great idea to promote International Literacy Day.
Thanks for sharing with us at TioT
Avril x