During the Oct. 6 address at the Grace College Orthopaedic Capital Center, former first lady Laura Bush spoke on her years at the White House and her passion for improving women’s health and literacy.
When she became the first lady, many tried to cast her as a pleasant and dutiful “housewife” who kept her opinions to herself. However, Bush had her own voice and was happy to share her opinions. One of her strongly held beliefs is that every child in America should learn to read.
Bush spoke about the importance of early childhood development to have children ready to read and ready to learn. She advocated the best way to develop early literacy is reading aloud to and with children. One of her greatest joys as a teacher was witnessing students become independent thinkers and avid readers.
Bush stated that literacy is an essential foundation for democracy and liberty.
“I know that books have the power not to just move people as individuals, but to shape our journey as a nation,” she said. Literacy brings “freedom from ignorance.”
Bush emphasized the importance of education of women worldwide. Educating and empowering women improves “nearly every other aspect of life.” Many of the world’s health problems are prevented or delayed as women’s education levels improve. The lack of women’s health and education play a role in poverty worldwide.
Bush encouraged people to “face fears and stand tall.” Her advice for college students is to read widely and choose a career in which to be most helpful and constructive.
The United States needs to be a beacon of freedom. Former President George Bush and she are including a Freedom Archive in the Bush Presidential Library under construction at Southern Methodist University. The Freedom Archive will include writings on liberty and freedom. She believes the Freedom Archive to be the first ever.
Congratulations and thank you to Grace College and the sponsors of the Laura Bush event. Laura Bush’s speech was inspirational.
