By Okon Ekpenyong

As we strive for equality and justice, we often focus on providing equal opportunities for all. However, one fundamental civil right frequently overlooked is the right to read. It may seem simple, but the ability to read is the cornerstone of success in life. It opens doors to knowledge, inspiration, and endless possibilities.

Tuesday, April 16, I was thrilled to attend the screening of “The Right to Read,” a powerful documentary that sheds light on the struggles of families and activists fighting for literacy for all children. It’s a reminder that this issue is not just about education but about justice and equality.

A panel discussion that followed the screening was equally inspiring. Governor Mike DeWine, Brett Tingley, and Kareem Weaver came together to emphasize the importance of adopting an educational curriculum based on the science of reading. They highlighted parents, educators, and policymakers’ critical role in providing children with the tools they need to succeed.

But this is not just a responsibility for those in positions of power. It is a responsibility for all of us. As members of society, we must advocate for the right to read and support organizations and initiatives that promote literacy. We must also recognize our privilege in being able to read and work towards providing the same privilege to every child.

According to the DeWine administration, there has been significant job growth in Ohio since the governor and Lt. Governor Jon Husted took office, with more than 70,000 new jobs created. “It is crucial to provide opportunities for families to relocate within the state and have access to high-paying jobs, allowing them to choose the best environment for their children to succeed,” Governor DeWine said.

DeWine also stated that his administration is committed to ensuring that all students in Ohio have access to quality education and resources. This includes emphasizing the importance of literacy and its significant impact on a student’s success in life. During his recent travels to various cities in Ohio, DeWine and his team have been discussing and sharing clips from the documentary “The Right to Read,” highlighting the need for all students to learn how to read. “By investing in our children and providing them with the necessary resources, we want to set them up for success and help them reach their full potential,” DeWine said.

Imagine a world where every child has the opportunity to read and unlock their full potential. It’s a world where barriers to success are broken down, and children have the tools to create a brighter future for themselves and their communities. Let’s make this vision a reality by ensuring that reading is a fundamental civil right for every child.

“While attending the screening of The Right to Read, I was blown away that I did know that many American kids were struggling with reading and could not read. If the current way we teach our kids is not working, we must strive and learn to teach them right away”, Deidre of Columbus said.

The conversation between Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Brett Tingley, and Kareem Weaver brought attention to the issue of literacy and the need for improvement in all ages. Tingley’s organization, Parents for Reading Justice, focuses on ensuring that all children have access to effective teachers and that teachers have the opportunity to be effective. By teaming up with the NAACP and an educator like Kareem Weaver, the meeting shed light on areas within the United States, particularly in urban environments, where literacy rates are alarmingly low. It also allowed for discussions on potential solutions and ways to address this issue.

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