In 2012, The United Nations declared October 11 as International Day of the Girl as a direct response to a 2007 non-governmental organization report documented the widespread discrimination against girls worldwide. International Day of the Girl is an international observance that supports more opportunities for girls and increases awareness of gender inequality faced by girls worldwide based on their gender. The report brought to light critical issues such as violence against girls/women, forced child marriage, poverty, access to education, nutrition, medical care, and protection against discrimination. 

Since the establishment of this day, there has been significant progress in addressing these issues, with increased awareness, policy changes, and improved access to education and healthcare for girls. The establishment of this day has since played a crucial role in raising awareness and addressing the pressing global issues of equality of girls.

In 2013, there were over 2,000 events worldwide to promote the Day of the Girl. These events included educational workshops, awareness campaigns, and community gatherings. Each year, a theme of the day highlights a particular issue that needs to be addressed. From Innovations in Education and ending Child Marriage to acknowledging the Digital Generation, these themes work to empower and invest in girls. The theme for 2024 is “Girls’ Vision for the Future”. This year’s theme conveys the need for urgent action and persistent hope, driven by the power of girls’ voices and vision for the future.

Raising awareness of the Day of the Girl also helps to show what happens when these problems are solved. For example, educating girls helps reduce the rates of child marriage and disease and helps strengthen the economy by helping girls and women have access to higher-paying jobs.

Take an active role in supporting International Day of the Girl by searching for events in your area. Your participation can significantly affect how this important day is celebrated, how the cause is supported and is crucial in raising awareness and promoting gender equality. Events in New York City include the Global Girls Glow International Day of the Girl Panel Discussion at the New York Society for Ethical Culture and Camp United Nations for Girls NYC 2024.