Building a Foundation for Freedom

Dear Friends,

Welcome to New York City for the White House Symposium on Advancing Global Literacy.

Ending illiteracy is a challenge for every country – and every government must do its part by investing in the education of its people. When governments invest in literacy, opportunities for children and families improve, economies grow stronger, and citizens can better protect their health.

White House photo by Shealah Craighead

Literacy is a foundation for personal freedom. The ability to read brings self-reliance and independence. Literacy can mean the difference between life and death. A mother who can read can make wise decisions to keep herself and her children healthy.

Literacy is a foundation for economic freedom. Free markets need informed consumers – consumers who can read. Wider literacy increases economic participation and leads to more stable and vibrant economies.

Literacy is a foundation for political freedom. The ability to read and write gives individuals a means to express their hopes and demands to their government, and to seek support for their families’ goals.

To achieve the international goal of Education for All, citizens and private organizations must work with governments to increase learning opportunities and improve education. I urge you to join us in making a commitment to advancing global literacy. Together we can help reduce inequality and build a foundation of freedom for all.

With best regards,

Mrs. Laura Bush