Literacy is an essential aspect of life. It focuses on phonological awareness, decoding, fluency, comprehension, and vocabulary. Literacy leads to academic success, desirable employment, and a happy life. Literacy allows people to be citizens; they can participate in society to their fullest potential. When people can’t read, they can’t fill out a job application, read traffic signs, and get a driver’s license. Research shows that there is a correlation between illiteracy and criminal behavior.

Brazilian Cultural Foundation (BCF) is dedicated to promoting literacy in Los Angeles. Members of our organization read to and with children with the aim of increasing greater interest in books. Recently, BCF offered cultural events at five Los Angeles Public Libraries that focused on literacy. A Capoeira presentation concluded each of the events.