WHEREAS:

In a literate society, someone who has difficulty in learning to read and write is at a great disadvantage; and

WHEREAS:

If the challenge is unmet, it can lead to grave social problems and even delinquency; and

WHEREAS:

The purpose of this proposal is to bring to your attention a hidden handicap affecting large numbers of our brothers and sisters; and

WHEREAS:

One out of ten people have a learning impairment, such as dyslexia. An estimated 23 million Americans are affected in varying degrees by this impairment alone; and

WHEREAS:

Thousands of AFSCME members and their dependents may have a variety of learning impairments.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That this 28th International Convention of AFSCME strenuously support all appropriate legislation to provide funding for learning impairments, at the federal, state and local government levels; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That AFSCME and all its councils and local unions seek out and inform all members of where they may receive remediation in their respective areas; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

That AFSCME and all its councils and local unions strive to establish "Workplace Literacy Programs;" and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:

That AFSCME will periodically publicize through the Public Employee, the AFSCME Leader and other union material, relevant information pertaining to symptoms of learning impairment, resources for examination and remedial aid, so that members may enhance their lives and psychological well-being, as well as to improve their promotional career opportunities.

SUBMITTED BY:

Wilson A. Fenty, President
AFSCME Local 1455, Council 37
New York, New York