| Hello friend,Many of us were once girls, and during this week of International Day for the Girl Child, it is important for us to reflect on how we can make girls’ lives easier. In many Nigerian cultures, the existence of girls is often confined to traditional roles, primarily focused on marriage and motherhood, overshadowing their true potential, personal dreams, and ambitions.Additionally, there is a pervasive culture of silence surrounding sexual harassment, which complicates matters for these girls. Many girls endure harassment in schools from boys, often dismissed as “tapping current,” while society discourages them from speaking out about these abuses. This silence not only perpetuates oppression from boys and men but also from women who may inadvertently reinforce these harmful norms.Listening to Nigerian girls is essential for challenging these deeply rooted attitudes. By creating safe spaces for girls to share their experiences, we can empower them to break free from societal constraints. Engaging in open conversations about their rights, emotions, and aspirations helps validate their experiences and fosters a sense of agency, eliminating the internalisation that their voices hold no weight.When they feel heard and supported, girls are more likely to confront challenges with courage and resilience. Recognising and amplifying the voices of Nigerian girls is also vital in helping them navigate their unique challenges. Empowered girls are more likely to live meaningful and happy lives.However, supporting girls is more than an individual concern; it is a collective responsibility that shapes the future of society. At Naija Feminists Media, we are committed to amplifying the voices of women and girls to ensure that we foster an equitable world through the media. With love and solidarity,The Naija Feminists Community. |
