THE FIRST EVER IN CANADA
National Aboriginal Literacy Gathering
by Priscilla George

In 1996, BEVERLY ANNE SABOURIN and Associates of Winnipeg and Step-by-Step Early Learning Centre, Kahnawake First Nation submitted a proposal to the National Literacy Secretariat with the intent of “developing a comprehensive policy framework and strategic approach to the complex issue of literacy within Aboriginal communities and among Aboriginal citizens of Canada”.

The first phase of the project compiled an inventory of more than 90 adult literacy programs sponsored and/or initiated by Aboriginal Peoples, and involving Aboriginal learners as clients. Phases Two and Three looked at factors that contributed to the success of Aboriginal literacy programs. The inventory, as well as two chapters entitled Common Threads and Critical Indicators constitute The Language of Literacy, A National Resource Directory of Aboriginal Literacy Programs.

Those interviewed consistently suggested developing a national network of Aboriginal literacy practitioners, and having a National Aboriginal Literacy Gathering (NALG). Phase Three established a National Aboriginal Design Committee (NADC) that is nationally representative of Aboriginal literacy practitioners to oversee such a gathering — the NADC includes a Learner and an Elder. The committee members include:

• Joy Coldwell, Yukon Learn Society, Whitehorse
  
  
• Nora MacDonald-Plourde, Nova Scotia Department of Education & Culture
  
  
• Beverly Anne Sabourin, Red River College, Winnipeg, Manitoba
  
  
• Edwina Wetzel, St. Anne’s School, Conne River First Nation, Newfoundland
  
  
• Derek Payne, Sto:lo Nation, Chilliwack, British Columbia
  
  
• Don Pinay, Yorkton Tribal Council, Yorkton, Saskatchewan
  
  
• Nancy Cooper, The AlphaPlus Centre, Toronto, Ontario

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