World Read Aloud Day

WHEREAS, 793 million people in the world today cannot read or write and twenty percent of adults in the United States read at or below a fifth grade reading level; and

WHEREAS, the ability to read and write affords children strength and resilience, allows adults to compete in the global economy, lays the groundwork for families to achieve better health outcomes, and strengthens democracy; and

WHEREAS, reading aloud encourages a love of reading in adults and children, and increases prospects for success in school, the workforce and society; and

WHEREAS, World Read Aloud Day is a day when all people around the world are invited to unite their voices and celebrate the power of sharing words and stories, sending the message that we want all children to grow up as readers and writers:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim March 7, 2012 as

World Read Aloud Day

in the state of Alabama.

 

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 24th day of February 2012.

      

Governor Robert Bentley