http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cRI1e86ADBE?rel=0

Providing quality education to girls is central to the long-term advancement in the United States and globally. Empowering girls isn’t seen as a priority in many countries around the world and that has to change. The Let Girls Learn initiative and the #62MillionGirls movement, spearheaded by First Lady Michelle Obama, are bringing this issue to the forefront. The comments from Michelle Obama and actress Charlize Theron at The Power Of An Educated Girl event in New York City were uplifting and need to be shared with every girl.

Because Girls Should Be Shown

That their minds are valuable to our world

That women are as capable as men

That there is more to being a woman than “perfect” beauty and body

That focusing on who you are and building your future is more vital than profile picture likes on social media

Because Girls Should Be Encouraged

To maximize their abilities and excel

To be educated in all fields especially in science, technology, and math

To play a sport: learn to lead, compete, and be a team player

To be confident and speak with assertiveness

And more…

An education is where it begins. We need more women in the media and everyday women to speak out and help the next generation of women. Men especially fathers and other male role models should support this effort also. However, women have to inspire ourselves and our girls.

I have three young nieces and I want them to realize their potential and strive for their dreams. I don’t want them to be discouraged from achieving any of their goals just because they happen to be girls and of color. I want them to take advantage of the education that they have access to in this country. Every girl in every country deserves an education and a strong foundation of belief in who she is as a person and in her success.

That’s why seeing women in positions of influence is so crucial.  There are only two women campaigning in the 2016 U.S. Presidential Election. Whether you like or dislike Hillary Clinton and Carly Fiorina or if you agree or disagree with their politics, seeing these women go to toe with their male counterparts sends a message to young girls and women.

Women CAN lead and succeed TOO. Educated girls are a BENEFIT to our world.