International Literacy Day 2010

Today is International Literacy Day: a date worth noting. Wikipedia reminds us that “September 8 was proclaimed International Literacy Day by UNESCO on November 17, 1965. It was first celebrated in 1966. Its aim is to highlight the importance of literacy to individuals, communities and societies. On International Literacy Day each year, UNESCO reminds the international community of the status of literacy and adult learning globally. Celebrations take place around the world.”

For 2010, UNESCO is focusing their attention on women’s literacy:

Some 796 million adults still lack literacy skills. About two-thirds are women. The International Literacy Day global celebrations will therefore focus on the transformation literacy can bring to women’s lives and thosen of their families, communities and societies.

The are celebrations and activities happening around the world today. Here are a select few to get you started:

The United Nations points out that action is even more important now, as we’re in the “Literacy Decade.”

Read, Write, Think offers lesson plans and other activities for International Literacy Day.

Crayola offers participant-driven activities on their website while the National Adult Literacy Database collects and shares information of ways that everyone can get involved. Life Literacy Canada is inviting people to “take the Literacy Day Challenge.”