Kamille Martin: First Blog Post

Upon reading "Sponsors of Literacy", I originally felt very confused. I wanted to understand the message the author was attempting to convey but it was quite difficult. However, while I continued to read, I was able to further understand Brandt's purpose. The author discussed sponsors: figures who turned up most typically in people's memories of literacy learning - older relatives, teachers, priests, etc. (powerful figures). This was automatically something I found interesting because I never viewed the word "sponsors" to have that meaning before. Instead, I always looked at it as representing someone or a company supporting another, which essentially now makes since for there to be a double meaning simultaneously. Personally, my "sponsor" would be hands-down my teachers. Ever since pre-school, I recall learning being solely through school. Although my parents would throw in words to teach me here and there, my A-B-C's and fundamental language was advanced within my classes.
Another concept brought up in the writing was about how literacy is a key resource for gaining profit and edge. Similar to the word "sponsor" having a double meaning in writing, I also never viewed literacy as having power. In contrast, through reading this piece, I can confirm that literacy absolutely has power! Brandt brought up how differences in performances are often attributed to family background (namely education and income of parents) or to particular norms and values operating within different ethnic groups or social classes. I agree with this idea because I have seen how those with lower economic backgrounds struggle with illiteracy. This then leads to further problems such as unemployment, homelessness, and a overall problem that conflicts with everyday life. Essentially, knowing how to read and write is everything because it gives you the ability to excel well in school, get a great career, and live a happier life. The worst part is that for some people, it is uncontrollable. Their environment, is the reason they are in the position they are in. In addition, Brandt touched on how economic and political changes in certain regions have effects on various people's ability to read and write.