We’re all about a holiday that represents girls and women across the globe to honor them in one way or another. Today is International Day of the Girl, and we’re breaking down why it’s time to work more efficiently towards gender equality, female education, the fight against poverty, and more. And, if you don’t know what the meaning behind International Day of the Girl is, that’s likely because it’s a much newer holiday on our calendar.

The Origin

On October 11, 2012 the United Nations acknowledged marked the day as the first International Day of the Girl. “The day aims to highlight and address the needs and challenges girls face, while promoting girls’ empowerment and the fulfillment of their human rights.” It’s celebrated in the US by working to dismantle the patriarchy through girl-led activism across the country. This year’s theme for the special day is With Her: A Skilled GirlForce.

Stats

Out of the 600 million teen girls across the world, more than 90% of those living in developed countries will receive little to no pay once they enter the workforce.
Abuse and exploitation are common. Approximately 603 million women still live in countries where domestic violence is not considered a crime.
As much as $28 trillion dollars could be added to the global GDP if we reach gender equality by 2025.
Out of the 757 million adults in the world who cannot read or write, two out of three are women.
41 million girls living in developing countries are denied a primary education
71 percent of human trafficking victims are women and girls
40 percent of women don’t identify with the women they see in the media and advertising
Women only account for 4.8% of Fortune 500 CEOs and 22% of global parliamentarians

How to Get Involved

You can write girls inspiring letters through To Love Ourselves. Seven in 10 girls believe they are not good enough. To Love Ourselves is on a mission to change their minds. They write letters to girls around the world who are going through a hard time, and each recipient receives 15 letters from writers, all filled with love and support. The message is simple: We believe in you and are rooting for you. You are never alone. You can also host a write night or make a donation.

Help spread awareness online. At the moment, the #InternationalDayoftheGirl hashtag has over 76,000 shares on Instagram, and you can join in with #DayoftheGirl on Twitter. Incorporate the conversation into your real-life interactions too, by advocating for girls with co-workers, friends, and family.

Donate! There are several organizations that continuously accept donations to support girls and women across the globe. These organizations also focus on different topics ranging from helping girls get an education to fighting poverty and more. Consider the Malala Fund, Girls Not Brides, and CARE International.