Literacy for Freedom

About

Literacy for Freedom is an outside-of-school mentorship group for Black boys and young men. Our programming is built upon research proving that mentorship that promotes racial identity leads to positive outcomes in students’ academic performance, social life, sense of self-esteem and identity, and formation of life skills. Every aspect of Literacy for Freedom’s curricula are designed to promote at least one of three goals for enrolled students: Literacy Development, College and Career Readiness, and Identity. 

It was created in the fall of 2019 by educator Keenan Jones. This organization was created to change the narrative that exists for Black boys in the state of Minnesota. It is a new 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization for Black boys in grades 5-12. Our site for the 2022-2023 academic year is at the Hopkins Public Library, located in Hopkins, MN. 

Why Black boys?

The educational status of African American males is complex, while many schools are falling short in meeting the needs of these vibrant and intelligent young men. In the book The Souls of Black Folks, W.E.B Dubois begins one of his chapters with the question, "How does it feel to be a problem?". This question was framed within the context of how African American males, striving for social, economic, and political inclusion at the turn of the 20th century. That question still remains as many African American males feel they are a problem in the 21st century. 

Data/Statistics

National

-47% of Black males graduated within 4 years from U.S schools in comparison to 78% for White males

-Only 34% of Black boys read proficiently (all grades tested)

Minnesota

-Black boys (all grades tested) were only 32% proficient on standardized reading tests while White males tested at 64%

-Black boys graduated at 66% in comparison to 87% for White males

Quote

"Literacy development for Black boys is significant because reading and writing difficulties will place these young male youth at risk for academic failure and involvement in maladaptive behaviors." Dr. Alfred Tatum

Founder

Keenan Jones is a rising educator and leader across the state of Minnesota. Mr. Jones is a champion for children, an innovator in education, writer, husband, and father. He has been in education for 13 years, inspiring students across the Twin Cities. He is an advocate for literacy, social justice in education, equity, and teacher diversity. 

Augsburg Now Feature: Literacy is Freedom

Why we need your help?

Literacy for Freedom has been in operation for a year and a half, but hasn't been able to do all the things necessary to make a larger impact. Donations will benefit not only the organization, but the young men that are being served. Here are some current needs for the organization:

-academic tutors ($10,000)

-accounting($2,000)

-food/supplies ($2,000)

-books ($2,000)

-technology ($2,500)

-student activities ($5,000)

Closing

We are in a critical point in American history, where the fate of the Black man depends upon what we do now. Too many of our young Black boys are being murdered by police, dying by gun violence, dropping out of school, and losing hope in the American dream. Investing in Literacy for Freedom will be an investment for Black boys across the state of Minnesota and beyond. Thank you! 

In solidarity,

Keenan Jones

Founder of Literacy for Freedom

Contact Information:

Phone: 763-267-1279

Email: literacyforfreedom@gmail.com