By Kimberly Happich Moloche, Good Shepherd International Justice and Peace Office, New York
The International Day of the Girl, on October 11, shines a spotlight on a theme that is both urgent and inspiring: ‘Girls’ Vision for the Future.’
Girls today face daunting challenges: climate change, ongoing conflicts, persistent poverty, and setbacks in human rights and gender equality. Many girls are still deprived of basic human rights, limiting their opportunities and endangering their futures. This reality is stark and sobering but far from the whole story.
Amid these challenges, girls are demonstrating extraordinary courage and hope. Globally, girls are taking bold steps to build a world where every girl is protected, respected, and empowered. Their visions for the future are fueled by a strong sense of justice and a belief in their ability to drive positive change.
Yet, realizing this vision demands the active support and engagement of girls’ allies—individuals, communities, and governments who are willing to listen, act, and invest in solutions that promote girls’ rights. With the right resources, opportunities, and encouragement, the potential of girls is boundless. When girls lead, the benefits extend beyond themselves: families, communities, and entire economies become stronger, and our collective future shines brighter.
As we approach the 30th anniversary next year of the Beijing Platform for Action, it’s essential to reflect on the achievements of the Good Shepherd International Justice and Peace (GSIJP) Office and the ongoing work needed to advance girls’ rights.
On this internationally celebrated day, the Working Group on Girls (WGG) will host its annual Girls Speak Out event at the United Nations. This event serves as a platform for girls to connect, learn, and engage with policymakers through an “Intergenerational Townhall,” where girls will share their needs and recommendations. Finally, there will be interactive workshops, entitled Girl Activists Facilitated Learning Labs, designed to equip girls with skills to become effective advocates and drive change in their communities.
The WGG has released a comprehensive guide to help girls host local, national, or regional Girls Speak Out events. Event submissions may be featured during the Girls Speak Out at the United Nations in New York*.
From October 1 to October 11, join us for the 11 Days of Action Good Shepherd Girls Social Media Campaign hosted by the GSIJP Office in collaboration with our partners in Asia-Pacific and Latin America. This inspiring campaign will spotlight extraordinary projects led by girls in Good Shepherd schools and programs worldwide, highlighting their leadership and impact. Stay updated and support this inspiring movement by following GSIJP’s social media pages (X, Facebook, Instagram).
The 2024 International Day of the Girl is both a call to action and a celebration of hope. By investing in and listening to girls, we pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future for all. Let’s unite, support their dreams, and work towards a world where every girl can reach her full potential and shine!
* For more information, please contact Kimberly Happich Moloche at KmolocheGSIJP@gmail.com
