The research provided an opportunity to test something new or to reflect on what was already happening. While most of us chose activities that we thought would work within the existing philosophy and mandate of our programs, others tested something new, challenging the practice in our programs.

• Why were some programs and women able to do what they wanted?

Our activities went forward because we had skills, courage, and the ability to strategize and organize. Women in literacy are used to taking initiative and control as much as possible within programs. We learn to be tough and to survive.

Many of us had the kind of personal credibility that gives us a power-base from which to work. Others had the support and involvement of women who were decision-makers and that allowed us to build on our own credibility. A few of us had administrative power in our programs - either as members of a collective or as part of a hierarchy - and we were able to implement our activities because of that power.

Some activities appeared to be organic outgrowths of already existing activities. They went forward fairly smoothly because they formed a natural progression of what was already happening. This made them acceptable as parts of the core program. Other activities responded to a need that was so clear that it overrode resistance.

Those of us who did activities outside the core curriculum or as volunteers did not require the same kinds of permission as women who wanted to do something that would change the foundation or funding of their programs. Some programs - and women - are so marginalized within institutions that what we do does not come under a great deal of scrutiny.

Much of what happened was not expected and we needed a combination of structural and personal opportunities to be flexible. Some of us were simply lucky that our activities did not get the wrong kind of attention.

For several activities, team-teaching provided a great deal of support, as did I the time and money to reflect on what was happening. A few programs actually I encourage risk-taking and new activities. Others have the resources to support new activities.

For many of us, however, our strong vision of what we wanted to work toward set a clear political agenda and helped to frame our activities and move them forward. The support of other women in the research reduced our isolation and gave us the energy to continue.