Maryland Community Newspapers Online
James W. Lawson's letter ("Pedestrians and traffic signs," Nov. 12) raised a point very familiar to me and my colleagues here at the Literacy Council of Montgomery County. Anyone who can't read — whether an immigrant or a native-born individual who never learned to read and write — is vulnerable to countless hazards every day.
These individuals may also be unable to read warning labels on household products, dosage instructions on medicine labels, and ingredient lists on food products to spot potentially life-threatening allergens. Imagine being unable to protect yourself from hazards like these, and you have a clue into the life of someone who can't read.
Pamela H. Saussy, Rockville
The writer is the Literacty Council's executive director.
