“It is difficult to help others
discover the strength of their voices
if we are speaking in whispers ourselves.”

We acknowledge and thank the National Literacy Program, Multiculturalism and Citizenship Canada, for their financial contribution towards the research for this project.

The views expressed in this report do not necessarily reflect the views of the funder.

Permission to reprint any portion of this document must be obtained in writing from the Canadian Congress for Learning Opportunities for Women.

This work is dedicated to the women who spoke with us during visits to the four communities.

With thanks to:
Cowichan Campus, Malaspina College, Duncan, BC
Rabbitown Community Literacy Program, St. John's, NF
WISE, St. John's, NF
Teachers On Wheels, St. John's, NF
Avalon Community College, St. John's, NF ..
Iris Kirby House, St. John's, NF
East End Literacy, Toronto, ON
Toronto ALFA Centre, Toronto, ON
Regent Park Learning Centre, Toronto, ON
Arctic College, Arviat, NWT

Designed and produced by Betty Ann Lloyd and Brenda Conroy, Work for Women Cooperative Limited, Halifax, Nova Scotia
Cover Design by Art & Facts Design and Communications, Toronto Printing by Jaguar Printing Toronto ©1991, Canadian Congress for Learning Opportunities for Women, 47 Main Street, Toronto, Ontario M4E 2V6

ISBN 0-921283-09-1