The Written Word

Five years ago, Elders living in the Snuneymuxw region, also known as Nanaimo, came together with one shared purpose – to learn to read. Many who had been forced to attend residential and day schools had left receiving limited, if any, meaningful education.

Low literacy skills continue to present significant barriers to education and employment, contributing to challenges related to poverty, housing instability, and involvement with the justice system. These Elders made this decision to function better independently and combat the lasting impacts of trauma. Yet, there are very few supports specifically designed for adult and Elder learners.

This need led to the creation of the Literacy Circle (TLC) Society, whose mandate is to provide safe spaces for Indigenous Elders and adults to develop literacy and numeracy skills in a respectful and culturally grounded environment. Since its launch in 2021, the TLC has welcomed more than 60 people to its classrooms and expanded from Snuneymuxw to Victoria. It is now looking to provide workshops in the Duncan/Saanich Peninsula with a goal of offering programming in 11 communities across Western Canada and in four additional communities on Vancouver Island. The TLC provides English literacy instruction and basic math at no cost to participants, taught by certified teachers with experience in adult literacy education. It is self-paced to ensure that individuals can learn and progress in a way that is comfortable for them. Participants also have access to weekly thee-hour classes offered throughout year. Beyond literacy instruction, the program incorporates storytelling, shared meals, and relationship-building to foster healing and connection. 

The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) has been proud to support TLC’s efforts for many years and looks forward to continuing to provide funding. This newest contribution will be integral to supporting Elder safety components, Elder Blessings, instructor honorariums and providing participants with free lunches and learning supplies. TLC is creating meaningful opportunities for healing while empowering Elders and adults to reclaim educational opportunities that were denied to many of them in their youth.

Diocese of Victoria