Native literacy is a model of education based on a philosophy for transformative learning. To implement such a model would require that we rise collectively as the possessors of ancient wisdom to take our place in the circle of learning in a good way to fulfill our prophecies. It may be that we can only pave the way, in a warrior-like fashion, for those coming behind us - our youth and children. Perhaps, all we can do is pass on the best from our bundles (resources), so the power of the gifts buried in our collective minds, hearts, and spirits will have room to expand. Let us seek that vision together.

In sincere acknowledgment of the previously accomplished work of other Native literacy workers, and to pay our respects to their efforts, we make the following statement: whatever recommendations previously made to guide the development and delivering of learning programs to First Nations adults, be included as the Toronto Native community takes up the responsibility of determining what Native literacy means to this community. We must never forget where we have come from, nor what we have learned, especially from those who first walked the path.

The following is a list of recommendations offered in the spirit of furthering the learning journey of Native adults who travel the long road toward the establishing justice and equity for all First Nations people.

Immediate

It is recommended that each agency that hosts a native literacy program must ensure that the program continues to evolve to meet the literacy needs of the population served and the agency must provide adequate resources and support for these programs in order to:

• enhance coordination, articulation, and transition between Native literacy programs and other community stakeholders;
• support the development of partnerships in developing and delivering Native literacy services; and
• improve the definition and availability of distinct Native literacy programming throughout Toronto.

The findings of the needs assessment provide enough information for Native literacy programs to begin and/or continue building the inter-agency strategy and community-wide partnerships needed in order to enhance access to Native literacy programs and services. The project goals originally stated for this project need to be revisited in collaboration with current interested stakeholders and community members as part of developing a proposed vision and action plan for this community. As suggested in the initial proposal, our findings confirm the need for:

• Greatly increased awareness of, support for, and participation in Native literacy services in Toronto.
• Initiation of partnerships addressing an inter-agency strategy.
• Development of a commonly understood protocol for assessment and referral.
• A clearly proposed and prioritized list of recommended initiatives; projects, new positions, avenues for funding and other resources.
• A foundation for innovative partnerships and shared resources. Coordination of access channels through a common protocol.
• Increased choice for learners and potential learners.