September 15, 2022
Manitoba Government Recognizes Manitoban on Earning Council of the Federation Literacy Award
Marilyn Freda Captain of Swan River has been named as the Manitoba recipient of this year’s Council of the Federation (COF) Literacy Award, a prestigious honour to recognize outstanding achievement, innovative practice and excellence in literacy, Premier Heather Stefanson and Advanced Education, Skills and Immigration Minister Jon Reyes announced today.
“Congratulations to Ms. Captain, whose commitment to literacy excellence has been rewarded above and beyond her award recognition,” said Stefanson, who is also COF vice-chair. “Though her early education was interrupted, she was inspired by her two daughters’ high school graduations to return to her own studies, in mid-life, to achieve the literacy that previously eluded her. Marilyn is an inspiration to all who strive to improve their lives through literacy.”
“In September 2021, at age 54, Ms. Captain registered with the Swan River Adult Literacy Program, and while very shy upon entering the classroom, I am told that she was not shy about her goal,” said Reyes. “Marilyn wanted to learn to read, particularly to her grandchildren. In just nine months, she made that dream come true.”
Today, with the aid of her first-ever library card, Captain shares her newfound ability and love of reading, and her renewed interest in her Indigenous heritage, with her neighbours, friends, family and most importantly, her grandchildren.
The Council of the Federation Literacy Award is presented annually in each province and territory to recognize the excellence of educators, volunteers, learners, community organizations and businesses in many areas including family, Indigenous, health, workplace and community literacy.
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