Seunfunmi Joshua
As we celebrate International Day of the Girl Child today, it’s important not just to rejoice but also to consider the critical issues at hand. This day is dedicated to supporting girls’ rights and well-being while recognizing the barriers they face in accessing education, combating harassment, and navigating modern challenges. Harassment is one of the many issues girls encounter in schools, public spaces, and online platforms. While this day serves as a reminder of the progress we’ve made in improving girls’ rights, it also stresses the need to provide them with the tools they need to combat harassment and discrimination. Empowering girls to speak up, ask for help, and safeguard their rights is crucial for raising a new generation of confident, resilient women.
1. Teach Them With Basic Self-Defense Skills
One of the most empowering tools we can give to girls, whether as family members, mothers, fathers, siblings, or friends, is the ability to defend themselves physically. Support self-defense programs, especially during awareness campaigns like International Day of the Girl Child, to ensure that girls feel capable of protecting themselves if necessary. Enroll your kids in self-defense classes so they can feel safe not just when they’re with you but also when they’re alone.
2. Have Open Conversations About Harassment
As a woman, I believe in open dialogue. Have conversations with your girl about what the real world looks like. Schools should engage in in-depth discussions about harassment with female students. Use this day to share real-life situations and teach girls that speaking up is not only courageous but essential for change. We should not allow the trauma we experienced to follow the new generation; let them know that HARASSMENT IS A NO NO NO.
3. Break The Cycle Addressing The Cultural Norms That Perpetuate Violence Against Girls
We live in a new era. We shouldn’t allow cultural norms that have historically affected girls, such as the mentality that blames victims for the harm they endure. Statements like “she shouldn’t have been out late” or “she must have provoked him” shift blame away from the perpetrator and may dissuade girls from reporting abuse.By addressing these perspectives, we take a step closer to making the world safer for them and future generations, helping girls claim their rights without fear of being judged.
4. Teach The Girl Child Digital Literacy So They Know How Combat Online Harassment
Online harassment has become an increasing issue in our rapidly changing digital landscape, disproportionately hurting girls and young women. With the rise of social media and online communication, many girls are targeted for cyberbullying and other forms of digital abuse. This International Day of the Girl Child, it is especially important to provide girls with the tools and knowledge to use the internet safely and effectively. Teach your girl how to navigate different digital devices from an early age so she is not misled by predators.
5. Empower Girls To Support Each Other
It’s alarming that many girls do not support one another. If we, as women, do not look out for each other, who will? Mothers, sisters, and aunties should teach girls the importance of supporting one another. Use this day to highlight the value of unity among girls, particularly when standing up to harassment. A strong sense of solidarity can foster a supportive environment where girls empower each other.
6. Celebrate Female Role Models That Speak Up
One of the most important tools in combating harassment and violence is the willingness to speak out. Throughout history, countless women and girls have bravely used their voices to fight injustice and inspire others. On this International Day of the Girl Child, let’s recognize female role models who have stood up against harassment, motivating the next generation to find their voices and advocate for their rights.
7. Educate Boys On Gender Respect Reducing Harassment Through Equality
Combating harassment involves not only empowering girls but also teaching boys about respect, empathy, and equality. By instilling healthy attitudes in boys from an early age, we can challenge the negative gender norms that perpetuate harassment. On International Day of the Girl Child, we should foster discussions that promote mutual respect between boys and girls, creating a future generation that values equality and kindness. Parents and guardians should teach boys the importance of respect and equality.
8. Encourage Girls To Speak Out Immediately
Do not discourage your girls from speaking up when they experience harassment, whether from an uncle or a relative. Empowering girls to report harassment as soon as it occurs is one of the most effective ways to stop it. They may feel afraid, ashamed, or lacking in confidence, but teaching them to respond quickly is vital. Speaking up immediately helps prevent the harasser from gaining control and sends a clear message that inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated. This not only helps deter repeat offenders but also enables girls to reclaim their power and assert their boundaries, which is crucial for their emotional and mental health.
9. Encourage Self-Assurance And Assertiveness
Teach the girl child how to stand up for themselves to help them feel more confident.Provide them with opportunities to assert themselves and speak up in uncomfortable situations, whether through workshops or self-expression exercises held in honor of the International Day of the Girl Child. One important piece of advice is to encourage self-affirmations, reminding girls that they are valuable individuals who contribute meaningfully, just like boys.
Wrapping Up,
As we celebrate the International Day of the Girl Child, it’s crucial to actively address the issues girls face and go beyond merely recognizing them. By equipping them with the tools to defend themselves, encouraging open discussions about harassment, and challenging harmful cultural practices, we can create a future where every girl lives in a world free from violence.Families, communities, and society at large all have a role to play in empowering girls to speak up for themselves and grow into strong, independent women. Let’s commit to raising a generation of girls who are respected, safe, and supported.
