International Day of the Girl Child: Girls' Vision for the Future

Every October 11th, we pause to honor the International Day of the Girl Child—a moment to reflect on the limitless potential of girls and their vision for a brighter, more equitable world. This year's theme, "Girls' Vision for the Future," challenges us to consider not only the aspirations and dreams of girls across the globe but also the unique obstacles they continue to face.

From access to education to the empowerment to make decisions about their own futures, today's girls stand at the threshold of monumental change. Yet, as we celebrate their vision, we must also recognize the resilience required to overcome the systemic barriers that stand in their way.

As I reflect on the stories of women I've encountered, and my own journey detailed in my book Can the Whole Woman Please Stand Up!, I am reminded of the deep wells of strength and perseverance that women must often draw from. In many ways, the path to wholeness and fulfillment for women today mirrors the challenges faced by girls globally—navigating societal expectations, overcoming adversity, and daring to envision futures beyond the limits of current circumstances.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity In Can the Whole Woman Please Stand Up!, I speak to the resilience women must cultivate when faced with life's storms. This resilience is essential not only for personal survival but for the ability to forge new paths for those who follow. For girls across the world, resilience means daring to dream in societies that often stifle their voices, advocating for themselves in environments where they may be seen but not heard, and pushing forward even when the odds seem insurmountable.

Much like the woman in Luke 13 who, after eighteen years of infirmity, was called by Jesus to stand up straight, today's girls are being called to rise—despite societal, cultural, and economic chains that may seek to bend them. Their dreams, aspirations, and visions represent not only their own futures but the futures of the communities they will one day lead.

Empowering Girls Through Wholeness: As I challenge women to stand up straight and tall, I see the same call to action for girls today. To stand in their wholeness means embracing their potential beyond the stereotypes and roles society assigns them. It means ensuring that girls have access to quality education, the support to pursue leadership, and the resources to overcome adversities such as child marriage, poverty, and gender-based violence.

This International Day of the Girl Child is a reminder that we must invest in their wholeness. We must create environments that nurture their vision and provide platforms for them to lead, whether in politics, business, or community organizing.

In line with the theme of “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” let us collectively work to build systems that affirm girls’ aspirations. Let us encourage resilience and provide the support systems needed for them to not just survive but thrive. For every girl who dares to envision a brighter tomorrow, may we stand beside her, ensuring she has the tools to bring that vision to life.

As we reflect today, I ask you to join me in this mission—to empower, support, and champion the visions of girls everywhere, for in their hands lies the future we all hope to see.