Literacy to Liberation

A Pathway to Liberation

Literacy is the very foundation of all learning and the pathway to liberation for every human being

As adults, we often take reading for granted, forgetting that literacy is the very foundation of all learning and the pathway to liberation for every human being.

For children, learning to read has meaning far beyond the simple building of skills. Reading is an act of identity building and affirmation, intellectualism, a way to understand and question the world around them, and most importantly, joy.

This should be the reality for all children, but it is not the experience for Black and Latinx children.

Standard teaching practice predominantly centers on white children's identity and experiences and only minimally touches on other races and people's lives, culture, and genius.

Research on the benefits of centering children’s cultures in education, points to the strong link between culture and the brain. Culture shapes the way the brain makes sense and meaning of the world.

By centering ourselves in this research, CLI helps teachers master instruction that promotes and elevates and centers the cultures of Black and Latinx children’s to advance literacy mastery in a manner that offers mirrors and windows into who they are.

Learn more about our mission >>

CLI Annual Report 2022 - Thank You to our Supporters

Inequities in education have long isolated children of color from the instruction they deserve.

The ultimate strength of our democracy and nation rests on our ability as educators to help ALL children develop literacy in all its true purpose and value. This is how we realize a world of equitably educated children who are powerful thinkers and world-changers. Reading is the very foundation of liberation.

Your philanthropic investment and support helps CLI equip school districts, principals, and teachers with the resources needed to empower and pursue their dreams.

Join us on our audacious path toward racial equity, transforming early education with culturally sustaining teaching that is responsive to Black and Latinx children.

Inspired by what you've seen and want to support CLI? Contact a member of our Development Team to learn more about how your philanthropic investment can advance our literacy mission.

Learn More >>

Learn more about our Literacy to Liberation campaign.

The Value of High-Quality Books >>

Our New Mission: Literacy to Liberation >>

Literacy to Liberation >>

Donate today

Make a gift. Your tax-deductible contribution fuels our work. With your help we can ensure teachers in under-resourced schools continue to have the training and resources they need to help students develop the reading skills essential to success. With your support, we can do more.

Give Today! >>

Inspired by what you've seen and want to support CLI? Contact a member of our Development Team to learn more about how your philanthropic investment can advance our literacy mission.