Building the capacity, connections, resources, and collective will to achieve universal literacy in Harlem with and for Black and Brown people

As educator and activist Septima Clark wrote in 1964, “Literacy means liberation.” Today, that is as true as ever.

Of the many pressing educational priorities in Harlem, we believe literacy is the most important and the most urgent. Strong literacy skills generate a powerful positive ripple effect—across academic subjects, in virtually every 21st-century career, and in one’s personal and civic endeavors. And yet, despite Harlem’s long-standing literary traditions and strong literacy aspirations, the capacity, coordination, and leadership needed to realize Harlem’s literacy goals have been inadequate to the task for decades.

Through innovative, intergenerational programs and events, resources, advocacy, and leadership development, we are building collective literacy power and working toward the day when all of our Black and Brown people in Harlem read and write well, critically, and joyfully. Further, we believe this work must be envisioned, guided, and led by Black and Brown community members.

Together, we will achieve universal literacy.