Premier Christy Clark sent congratulations to Anne Docherty today as the winner of the 2014 Council of the Federation Literacy Award for B.C. Ms. Docherty receives a medallion, a certificate, and $300.

“Anne has worked tirelessly to spark literacy by finding, celebrating and sharing the stories of those who live in the Upper Skeena, and finding a new way to preserve an ancient tradition,” said Clark.

Ms. Docherty has provided literacy and community building support in the Hazelton and Skeena area for more than 30 years, including work rebuilding literacy with the Gitxsan First Nation through storytelling and other Aboriginal traditions. As the Executive Director at the Storytellers’ Foundation in Hazelton, she has designed a people-centred approach to literacy that cultivates active citizenship.

“Anne Docherty has expanded our understanding of literacy and learning and how it contributes to the health of a community. She has reminded us how important it is to respond to the unique nature of our communities if we are to be truly effective,” said Minister of Education Peter Fassbender.

The Council of the Federation, which comprises all 13 provincial and territorial premiers, created the literacy award in 2004. Each province and territory chooses a group or individual that has made a significant contribution to literacy. Award recipients receive a certificate, signed by the premier of their province or territory, a Council of the Federation Literacy Award medallion and $300.

Learn more:

http://www.bced.gov.bc.ca/pls/aboutliteracy.htm

Media Contacts:

Sam Oliphant
Press Secretary
Office of the Premier of B.C.
250 952-7252

Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Education
250 356-5963