Dear World,
The Declaration of Independence says, "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness."
Where do women fit into this picture? At the time this document was written, a woman's duty was to cook, clean, and raise children. It was unheard of for a woman to have an education, a career, and success. When America declared its independence as a nation, where was the independence for women?
Almost three centuries later, women have made a lot of progress, but it wasn't until the suffragette movements of the 1920's that we finally got the equal rights we deserve.
I have been part of the Girls Inc. organization since preschool, and I've learned many life-long lessons there. Girls Inc. has taught me that it's okay to be intelligent, and that "beautiful" does not necessarily mean size zero jeans. Girls Inc. has empowered me with the confidence to resist stereotypes, to stand up for what I believe in. I am proud to be part of the next generation of strong, smart, and bold women.
Sincerely,
Karina, age 13
