A sea of crimson and crme greeted drivers Saturday morning, Oct. 20, in front of the flagpole at the entrance of the school for the annual “Walk for Literacy,” hosted by The Eta Beta chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Inc.
The walk which was intended to raise awareness of illiteracy and make monetary donations to support the cause, lasted approximately an hour.
The course circled the university beginning and ending at the university flagpoles.
Kristi Lewis, president of the organization, said, “As members of the Eta Beta chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., we are responsible for taking care of the community and giving back. The event was to fund the local schools so they can buy technology programs and books for their students.”
The walk was open to all students and organizers. Students were asked to donate old books or money prior to the event. T-shirts were also sold during the walk.
Illiteracy affects numerous people and organizers hoped to bring about awareness through positive communication.
Recently, U.S. Rep. John Spralt, (D-SC), chairman of House Committee on the Budget, said the president’s budget under the No Child Left Behind is $1.2 billion below the 2003 level.
The Deltas said that was why they wanted to raise money to help this cause; they received assistance from other students outside of the organization also.
Illiteracy is an internationally recognized issue; and is observed Sept. 8 during International Literacy Day. This year’s theme was “Literacy sustains development.”
“Come out and support,” encouraged Lewis. “This affects the Waller County Community. These kids may one day come out to Prairie View A&M University and be productive people.”
Terri Mason, a member of the organization, spoke about how students could improve the low proficiency rates in the surrounding communities.
“This event was to help local schools,” said Mason. “It’s an out of the box way to raise money for schools to buy books.”