[AAACE-NLA] Activism,Advocacy, and Accountability

[ANTHONY GABRIEL]

For  too long, the cause and hopes of adult learners  have been tied to the 
efforts of those well meaning, but  not really connected to the struggles of 
the average adult literacy student. Here in New Orleans, The ALIVE 
GROUP(Adults Initiaing Voices for Education) is attempting to enligten as 
well as activate learners, providers and the community  around the issue of 
literacy and empowerment  for adult learners.  Unfortunatlely, the support 
for grassroots engagement  of adult learners  is not yet a priority or 
reality . Recently, the ALIVE GROUP organized  a essay contest and 
celebration  for a citywide  event that was to focus on adult learners and 
their accomplishments; Several notices and announcements were sent to the 
media outlets as well as the Literacy community. The response from the media 
was not  unexpended, (No coverage) but  what was more shocking was the lack 
of support from the so called supporters of adult literacy students, the 
Literacy Community ( Organizations , teachers, funders, and providers,etc.)

How do we hold those in charge of helping  and supporting adult learners 
accountable?

or How do you make  Activism, Advocacy and Accountability the real 
evidence-based research by which a literacy organization or program  is 
truely measured? I welcome everyone's input.


Anthony Gabriel
Adult Literacy Instructor
Advocate and Consultant for ALIVE GROUP

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