The American Human Rights Council (AHRC-USA) joins the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and communities across the globe in honor of International Literacy Day on September 8, 2016. This year marks the 50th Anniversary of International Literacy Day, and UNESCO is honoring this important time with the theme “Reading the Past, Writing the Future.”
International Literacy Day began five decades ago to provide a platform for the United Nations, governments and civil society to join to together to increase literacy rates worldwide. As we continue to move forward, International Literacy Day also serves as a day to recognize and address the continuing challenges global communities face to increase the literacy rates of their citizens.
“Literacy and education are important components to the well-being and quality of life for every person in the world,” said Imad Hamad, AHRC Executive Director. “Literacy and education helps to lift people out of poverty, advocate for their human rights, and become strong advocates for their families, their communities and our common humanity,” Mr. Hamad continued.
AHRC-USA encourages all to participate in the celebration of the 50th Anniversary of International Literacy Day. Locally, AHRC encourages everyone to volunteer with various literacy organizations and initiatives to increase literacy rates here at home.
To learn more about International Literacy Day, please visit www.unesco.org.