It’s time to celebrate International Day of the Girl!
Yesterday, teenage activist and inspiration to us all, Malala Yousafzai, won the Nobel Peace Prize, along with Kailash Satyarthi. Yousafzai is the youngest recipient of this prestigious award, and we here at HG couldn’t be more proud of this young woman. Not only was winning the Nobel Peace Prize such an incredible accomplishment for her, but Yousafzai found it encouraging for all young women across the globe. She stated, “It means we are standing together to ensure all children get quality education.” Yousafzai has been fighting for girls for a long time, and has made it her mission to promote equal education opportunities in Pakistan. Above all, she is monumentally dedicated to make the world a safer place for girls.
Today, we celebrate young women like Malala Yousafzai for International Day of the Girl. To support and promote gender equality, emphasize the importance of education for all, protect the lives of young women who may be victims of abuse or crime, and actualize the dreams of so many girls who face unimaginable obstacles, the UN has chosen today, October 11th, to raise global awareness and present a call to action. President Obama has stated, “In every community across the globe, girls and women should have the opportunity to learn, grow and achieve their fullest potential. All nations have a responsibility to protect the basic human rights of all people, and when they do — when girls and women are fully valued as equal participants in a country’s politics and economy — societies are more likely to succeed.”
Of course, we are fighting an unfortunate uphill battle. Too many girls are ignored. Too many girls are victims of abuse, human trafficking, sexism, and rape culture. Too many girls do not have access to proper health care. Too many girls have had their dreams scorned upon and stolen.
But we are trying to make things better. President Obama stated, “As we work to transform the lives of girls and women abroad, we have also redoubled our efforts to ensure there are no barriers to their success here at home. Vice President Joe Biden’s 1is2many initiative is raising awareness about the high rates of teen violence, and my Administration is engaging school districts, college students, and community members as a part of our effort to end sexual assault and domestic violence.” And by expanding the Affordable Care Act, more accessible and affordable health care will become available for young women.
Gigglers, join us in this very important, crucial day for all women. Because all girls are smart, courageous, strong, curious, and wonderful. Because all girls deserve a chance.
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