What a great idea! This spring a new museum is opening in Washington, DC to celebrate language.
Their Vision: "Language is what makes us human. From earliest childhood we weave our words into speech to communicate. At Planet Word we inspire and renew a love of words and language through unique, immersive learning experiences."
The museum plans to show the fun of words and language everywhere in the building – from cafeteria to stairwells to bathrooms. They welcome all, regardless of age, language level, or whether they even speak English. Some of the interactive experiences include watching yourself make a famous speech, participating in research in the language lab, and signing up for classes on songwriting, storytelling, and sign language.
The impetus behind the museum is the fact that in this country, 21% of adults read below a 5th-grade level, and 31% of 4th-graders can't pass the "basic" level on national reading tests.
As they point out, literacy skills are more important than ever in the 21st century. A literate population is needed to support our very democracy and without basic literacy, many people are being left behind in the economy.
I remember when I tutored literacy many years ago – people couldn't read their Bible or a medicine label, and selected canned goods based on the picture on the label. It was difficult to navigate the world, even dangerous; many tried to hide it. There are many literacy programs now, staffed by volunteers, and in many small communities. The testimonials of the now-reading students bring audiences to tears.
The museum is located in the historic Franklin School at the corner of 13th and K Streets. The building has been extensively renovated in accordance with its national landmark status. Here's the website so you can find out exactly when the museum is opening.
I can't wait!