Girls are being sexually harassed and assaulted at younger ages than you might think. They are growing up in a culture that tolerates it.
We know the effects of sexual harassment and violence on girls and the long-lasting consequences physically, emotionally, academically, and socially. To fulfill our mission of inspiring girls to be strong, smart, and bold, Girls Inc. is working to change the conditions in which girls are growing up and create a culture that up and promote the dignity of girls and all young people.
Since #MeToo went viral, the media attention has raised awareness about the pervasiveness of sexual harassment and violence women face in the workplace and on campuses. Girls Inc. and our powerful network of girls and partners want to focus on girls’ experiences as we all work toward changing our culture to no longer tolerate harassment.
The #GirlsToo national campaign will focus on sexual harassment and assault in the lives of youth, particularly girls, with actions aimed at addressing the norms and stereotypes that fuel these behaviors. We believe building a culture of respect for girls must start at a young age. And we believe that together we have the power to change the culture for today’s girls and generations to come.
Alarmingly, 7 in 10 girls are sexually harassed by the time they leave high school. A recently released survey of young girls between the ages of 14 and 19 found that 3 out of 4 girls feel unsafe at least once and while. The majority also said they hear boys making sexual comments at least several times a week.
While girls are more likely to experience sexual harassment and violence, boys are survivors too. LGBTQ+ youth, youth of color, youth with disabilities and youth from low-income communities are disproportionately affected.
We are the experts at girl development and what it takes for girls to be successful. It’s what we do from coast to coast every day. But this is not just about empowering girls. We all have to be involved in finding a solution – men and women, boys and girls.
We must unite to shift deeply entrenched norms, stop the sexual harassment and violence that girls face, and create a healthier, safer culture for all young people. Changing norms around sexual violence is possible, but it requires participation and commitment from everyone.
The change we seek requires all of us to work together. Join us.
Take the Pledge: There’s power in making a personal commitment. Take the #GirlsToo Pledge and encourage others to do the same by sharing across your social media networks. Change is possible.
Help Spread the Message: Each of us has a network of friends, colleagues, associates, and family members who each have a network of their own. Share social media messages about the campaign to expand the reach and impact.
Implement the RESPECT Steps: There are concrete, tangible actions we can all take to make a positive difference. The RESPECT Steps are a great place to start.
Reflect – Reflect on your own biases and challenge gender stereotypes
Educate – Educate youth about healthy relationships and consent
Support – Support and believe survivors who come forward
Promote – Promote policies and practices that foster a safe school climate
Encourage – Encourage youth leadership and involvement in change
Call Out – Call out words and actions that demean women and girls
Take Action – Be an “upstander” and intervene to prevent harm
Access resources to get more informed.
We must unite to shift deeply entrenched norms, stop the sexual harassment and violence that girls face, and create a healthier, safer culture for all young people. Changing norms around sexual violence is possible, but it requires participation and commitment from everyone.