Submitted by Yvonette Powell
The 10th anniversary of the International Day of the Girl Child brought together the ladies of the Bronx Alumnae Chapter with the Bronx community to celebrate and honor the importance of girls, their voices, and their rights. This day is set aside annually to give girls worldwide a platform to raise their voices and demand equality of rights, education, and health. This year’s theme was “Our Time is Now – Our Rights, Our Future.” Indeed, the time will always be now to do better for our girls – not just in the Bronx but across the globe.
The outdoor patio/garden of the Dr. Daniel Hale Williams Middle School 180 was the perfect backdrop, coupled with a warm Friday afternoon; the stage was set for a fun-filled celebration of age-appropriate activities ranging from dance to entrepreneurship. More than 70 students from across the Bronx attended. The little ones enjoyed story time and face painting. The older students participated in dance workshops and a crash course in financial literacy. Baked goods were on sale prepared by students from the neighboring Harry S. Truman high school’s culinary program.
Viewing the students was a special treat to witness their entrepreneurial spirit at such a young age. When asked about their future career goals, one student said they planned to attend culinary school and become a pastry chef. This dialogue and the student’s clarity about their future made the day worth it. They also understand the importance of giving back to their community – they donated 50 percent of their sales.
Not only did the sorors of Bronx Alumnae volunteer their time and talent to this event, but they also contributed their treasure to support the very vital work of I Can Fly International — an organization working to “provide life-changing opportunities through education to rescued children and youth living within impoverished villages around the world.”
It was an afternoon of grand celebration – one that we hope has left an even more significant impact on all in attendance. We hope all attendees are empowered to continue the fight for girls worldwide. After all, the girl child is our jewel, and their time will always be now!s our jewel and their time will always be now!