Families Celebrate Literacy

The importance of reading and engaging in other literacy-related activities as a family are being celebrated on Nova Scotia’s 20th anniversary of Family Literacy Day.

Lands and Forestry Minister Iain Rankin, on behalf of Premier Stephen McNeil, will join community partners and families who have benefitted from literacy programs at an event today, Jan. 25, at the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre in Halifax. The event will begin with a prayer and smudging ceremony, traditional dance and drumming group, and a reading of the children’s book, George Paul and The Honour Song.

“Literacy strengthens our families, our communities and our economy,” said Mr. Rankin. “Today is about celebrating the importance of literacy for the whole family by encouraging families to find fun in learning and supporting them in their personal educational goals.”

Over the past year, Nova Scotian families participated in 16 literacy programs supported by the province. The programs feature special theme workshops, information sessions and learning circles offered by community-based literacy organizations.

“Family literacy programs support the natural learning styles of Indigenous people and provides long-term success for our families and communities,” said Pam Glode-Desrochers, executive director of the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre. “They provide the opportunity for our families to bond and supports the ongoing development of our Indigenous communities

Find more information about family literacy at http://www.abclifeliteracy.ca/family-literacy .

The 20th anniversary coincides with the United Nations declaration of 2019 as the International Year of Indigenous Languages.