WHY DO WE NEED FLWN?

Many women feel isolated, many work alone, many have little connection with other literacy workers who share their concerns.

Every day literacy workers deal with the realities of women's lives; issues of poverty, unemployment, racism, harassment, violence against women and children, inappropriate curricula and materials, lack of child-care, health concerns, and others. When these issues are talked about in the classroom, many literacy workers feel they lack the necessary information, skills and confidence to deal with them.

In addition, Many women feel silenced in literacy programs when they suggest program changes or attempt to put woman-positive programs and events into place. They are often afraid to identify themselves as "feminists", and experience negative feedback from colleagues, administrators, students and volunteers.

Women working in literacy need to discuss common problems and issues, to share experiences, and to work together towards making literacy programs supportive and positive for women.