WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Lisa Murkowski and Mark Begich yesterday joined 9 of their U.S. Senate colleagues to cosponsor a bipartisan Senate Resolution recognizing the week of September 12, 2011 as National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week.

The bill is designed to call attention to the fact that approximately 90 million American adults struggle with literacy, numeracy and English language skills, many of which are necessary to gain employment and help their children in school.

“Literacy is the backbone on which Americans build success,” said Sen. Murkowski. “Those who are literate are more likely to get and keep a good job, help their children succeed in school, and be part of a robust American economy. Literacy enriches our lives by unlocking access to our history, our culture, and our future. I strongly support efforts in Alaska and across the nation to increase adult and family literacy skills and encourage all Americans to do so, too.”

“Across the world, we view literacy rates as a measuring stick for a nation’s economic success, and I think it’s time we do the same at home,” Sen. Begich said. “Adult education and family literacy programs are a powerful way to promote our economic recovery and empower Alaska’s families. These programs are an important part of putting Americans back to work by preparing them with the tools needed to succeed in their careers and provide for their families.”

The legislation was introduced by Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Lamar Alexander (R-TN), with additional cosponsorship from Senators Michael Enzi (R-WY), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Jim Webb (D-VA), Tim Johnson (D-SD), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Ben Cardin (D-MD) and Bob Casey (D-PA).

Source: Office of Senator Begich