MARCH 08 2024
LET'S UNLOCK THE POWER OF READING
Today is the International Women's Day. On this day, I would like to draw your attention to a cause close to my heart: literacy for girls.
Literacy is more than just reading and writing; it's the key that unlocks the door to knowledge, opportunity, and empowerment. Teaching children to read wasn't common in history, and even less so when it came to girls. Girls today stand on the shoulders of those who fought to guarantee girls and women the right to learn. This fight has paved the way for today's girls to dream bigger and reach higher.
Despite progress, the fight for universal literacy continues. While female literacy rates are improving, an unacceptable number of girls still lack access to basic education. We know that when a girl learns to read, her potential blossoms and her story changes—for the better. There is a saying that when you educate a girl, you don't just educate her - she extends her knowledge to the surrounding society. Educated women raise healthier families, build stronger communities, and spur economic growth. Literacy not only empowers individual women but also has a ripple effect that improves the world, starting from the woman's own immediate surroundings.
One inspirational tale of a woman who overcame barriers to literacy and education that comes to mind is that of young Malala's bravery, but so many unnamed women have silently turned pages into possibilities, despite the difficulties. Apparently, in some countries, it seems to be that those in power find illiterate masses as something easier to control. Not just those with political power, but even at the level of cities, villages, and families. When girls learn to read, they become aware of human rights and begin advocating for themselves, and this can be seen as a threat to the powers that be. I have never understood how any country can dismiss the intelligence of half of its population - women who could help build a better society if given the keys of knowledge
In a country where female education is guaranteed, it's easy to overlook the importance of sharing the joy of reading with our children. Together, they, in turn, will teach the good habit of reading to their own children. In the spirit of the International Women's Day, I ask you to advocate for literacy in your community, inspire a girl to pick up a book, because when a girl learns to read, her story is just beginning.
Warm regards,
Leena
P.S. Remember, every book opened is a door to a new world waiting to be explored. Let's make sure every girl has the key.
P.S.2 If you like the illustration below
CLICK ON THE PICTURE TO FIND IT IN MY REDBUBBLE STORE
