If you are having an event, such as a graduation, consider inviting local policymakers to speak. Not only will they learn more about literacy by preparing their remarks, but they will also learn from hearing what the learners and other participants have to say. Keep track of how your representatives vote on literacy issues, such as adult education appropriations, and be sure to thank them in writing and, if possible, in person when they support literacy. I have yet to meet a legislator who doesn't read his or her local newspaper regularly. Letters to the editor are an effective way to generate awareness about literacy in your community, and to remind legislators that it is an issue that matters to the voters.
Literacy can have a direct impact on reducing welfare dependency, unemployment, and crime.
Portraying the issue in a more positive light by focusing on solutions avoids this sort of blame and encourages action. Put policymakers on your mailing list. In my experience, committed advocates can and do make a tremendous difference in policy. If literacy programs across the country take the steps outlined above and if more people like Gloria get out their message, we can, collectively, create a new national momentum to address our nation's literacy needs. In so doing, we will all benefit.