In 2011, as the result of youth advocacy around the world, the United Nations declared, opens a new window October 11th as the International Day of the Girl Child, opens a new window. Its mission is “to help galvanize worldwide enthusiasm for goals to better girls’ lives, providing an opportunity for them to show leadership and reach their full potential.” It’s a day when activist groups come together under the same goal to highlight, discuss and take action to advance rights and opportunities for girls everywhere.
Celebrate With the Library
In 2013 the film Girl Rising was released and showcased girls from around the world affected by the power of education. In parts of the world girls face barriers to education that boys do not. Did you know that educating girls can break cycles of poverty in just one generation?
To celebrate International Day of the Girl Child, four San Mateo County Libraries will be screening this impactful documentary.
- Tuesday, October 9, 2018, 6:30 PM - Belmont Library
- Thursday, October 11, 2018, 6:00 PM - Half Moon Bay Library
- Wednesday, October 17, 2018, 6:00 PM - Foster City Library
- Thursday, October 18, 2018, 6:30 PM - Pacifica Sharp Park
Each library will be giving out Girl Rising books at the screenings, while supplies last.
Girls Facing Crisis Around the World
Women make up nearly two thirds of the world’s illiterate adults. (UNESCO, 2016)
The total number of girls married in childhood is now estimated at 12 million a year. The new figures point to an accumulated global reduction of 25 million fewer marriages than would have been anticipated under global levels 10 years ago. (UNICEF, 2018)
Globally, about one third of women aged 20 to 24 were child brides. (UNICEF, 2016)
On International Day of the Girl Child let us commit to investing in skills, training and education for girls and livelihood activities for young women around the world who are facing crises. Far from being passive recipients of assistance, these girls are leaders who will use the skills they develop today to rebuild their communities and create a better future for all of us.
How will you celebrate International Day of the Girl Child? Share below!
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