What is International Literacy Day, and why should I be a part of International Literacy Day?
International Literacy Day, founded by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), and first observed on September 8, 1967. Since then, International Literacy Day has been held annually on September 8th to promote worldwide literacy, since it is estimated that 860 million of the world’s adults are illiterate, and that over 100 million children do not have access to the facilities, tools, or learning materials they need to become literate. According to the International Reading Association (IRA) website (www.reading.org), International Literacy Day calls upon everyone (individuals, organizations, and countries throughout the world) to promote literacy and demonstrate their commitment to ensure that every person has a fair chance to become literate. The IRA cosponsors an annual International Literacy Day celebration, which features distinguished speakers, government representatives, members of non-governmental organizations (NGO’s), and the media. Duri
