1. CISPES - Washington, DC Literacy Brigade to El Salvador Summer 2015 Presentation by Marvin E. Centeno

2. Introduction: CISPES Delegations

3. Historical Context ●Historically, many Salvadorans were excluded from education system ●In 2007 18% of the population over the age of 15 couldn’t read or write ●Illiteracy rates are higher among women than men

4. Confronting education inequalities is crucial “to achieving economic, social and political development.” -President Salvador Sánchez Cerén The Programa Nacional de Alfabetización was launched in 2010. Goal: Eliminate illiteracy across the country by 2021. What is the National Literacy Program & why is it important?

5. Inspiration for the Literacy Program

6. Literacy CirclesRadio Lessons How does the program work in El Salvador?

7. Since 2009: over 200,000 people have been taught to read illiteracy rate decreased by 5.2% (from 17.9% to 12/7%) 21 towns have been declared “Free of Illiteracy” What has the program accomplished?

8. FMLN allocated more resources: In 2009, the adult literacy budget went from $4 million to $40 million Impoverished and marginalized communities are prioritized The efforts of tens of thousands of volunteer The Cuban method is proven and tested What Makes this Program Successful?

9. Limited resources Political opposition from the right-wing International Monetary Fund (IMF) pushing for El Salvador to cut social spending Political and International Challenges

10. That’s why we need you! https://vimeo.com/60722981

11. People who: Are proficient in Spanish Have an interest in popular education and international solidarity *Students, teachers, and Salvadoran/Salvadoran-American youth are encouraged to apply* Who Can Help?

12. Promote the literacy program through outreach to members of the community Participate in local events and workshops Visit different government-sponsored social programs Meet with teacher unions, student organizers, and local activists Enrich your knowledge on Salvadoran politics, history, and social context Investigate US government-led education efforts in the country What will I do as a brigadista?

13. When is it? July 18-August 1, 2015 Where Will I Stay? Hotels, guesthouses and community spaces Can I Receive School Credit? Possibly Logistics for the Volunteer Brigade

14. How Much Will It Cost? $1000 + airfare Are there scholarships available? Yes, and fundraising support, too. Application Deadline: April 15, 2015 Costs and Fundraising

15. Questions, Comments, Concerns…..?