International Day of the Girl 2022
By Nayshma Jones – Climate Resilience and Equity Manager
Photo: Olivia Collins – Senior Director of Programs – CLEO Institute
LET’S CELEBRATE: INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE GIRL!
The CLEO Institute along with the world commemorates the 10th anniversary of International Day of the Girl. Declared by the United Nations, this day serves as an opportunity to applaud the achievements and contributions to society made by girls. Recognize the existing disparities and find solutions that encourage the support, sustainable development and well-being of girls around the world.
Since the holiday’s inception on October 11, 2012, we have certainly witnessed historical moments with regards to women and girls. The election of Kamala Harris, the first woman to serve as the Vice President of the United States. Along with the induction of Ketanji Brown Jackson to the U.S. Supreme Court, the first black woman to hold this position in the institution’s 233 year history. Brazil and Sierra Leone joined Australia, England, New Zealand, U.S. and Norway in equal pay for women footballers. Greta Thunberg, from Sweden and at the age of 16, became the international face of environmentalism and climate change. Encouraging radical change in global systems and national decision making to end dependence on fossil fuels, now.
Amongst all these advancements, we cannot forget the revocation of the landmark 1973 U.S. Supreme Court case, Roe v. Wade. A federal decision to take away a woman’s right to abortion. Leading to a great schism in the government’s protection of women’s reproductive health. Globally, continued violence against women, divestment in their education and resistance to equitable economic development across genders are battles still being fought.
The United Nations calls for us to:
“Share human interest stories, blogs and videos of girl changemakers…collectively amplify their leadership, actions, and impact to inspire others.
- Engage government officials, policymakers and stakeholders
- Engage key female influencers
- Amplify your commitment “
The CLEO Institute is taking this charge head on through the flagship program Empowering Resilient Women. Through our four pillars: We Learn, We Prepare, We Act, We Lead participants gain the knowledge, experience and tools necessary to become change agents in their homes, workplaces and communities. Building resilience in the face of the climate crisis that disportionately affects all social determinants of health for women and girls.
“Now more than ever, we must renew our commitment to work together so that girls enjoy and exercise their rights and can play a full and equal part in their communities and societies. Investing in girls is investing in our common future.”
UN Secretary-General António Guterres
Did you know the percentage of females among Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) graduates is below 15 per cent in over two-thirds of countries?
Dynamic and poignant leadership is essential to resolving the injustices and barriers that exist for women and girls. Like the Atlantic Council’s Adrienne Arsht-Rockefeller Foundation; appointing an all woman team of 7 Chief Heat Officers across the globe. An example to the world of the power in women leadership and the need for it as we search for diverse solutions to our complex social issues. Striving for a more inclusive society should be an everyday event, but today, let’s acknowledge we have yet so much to do and it is up to all of us to play our part!