During the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, we are sending a powerful message: education is a key lever for breaking the cycle of violence and unlocking a brighter future for women and girls.
At Crossroads International, we work alongside local partners like NAFGEM (Network Against Female Genital Mutilation) in Tanzania to combat these forms of violence. NAFGEM provides safe shelters for young girls threatened by early marriage and female genital mutilation (FGM), allowing them to continue their education in a protected environment. An inspiring example is Theresa, a courageous 12-year-old girl who escaped FGM. Raised in a Maasai family where these practices are common, Theresa learned about her rights through NAFGEM’s school visits. When her family planned for her to undergo FGM, she reached out to her teachers, who connected her with NAFGEM, providing her with shelter and access to education.
Worldwide:
- 1 in 3 women experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime (UN Women)
- 1 in 4 adolescent girls (aged 15-19) has suffered physical violence.
These alarming statistics highlight the urgent need for sustainable, community-driven solutions to end violence and give young girls the opportunity to stay in school, ensuring them safer tomorrows.
EDUCATION: A PATH TO EMPOWERMENT
Education does more than keep girls in school; it is a powerful tool in the fight against violence. Girls who stay in school are more likely to secure stable employment, strengthen their economic independence, and make informed decisions about their futures. This reduces their vulnerability to violence, early marriage, and other harmful practices.
By supporting initiatives that keep girls in school, Crossroads International helps create safer environments where young girls can thrive without constant fear for their safety. Through partnerships, advocacy, and local training programs, we work to strengthen these spaces of protection and opportunity.
#KEEPGIRLSINSCHOOL: HOW YOU CAN HELP
With your support, Crossroads can continue to develop programs that empower girls, educate communities, and offer long-term solutions to eliminate gender-based violence. During these 16 Days of Activism, we invite you to join the global movement with Crossroads to help girls stay safe, educated, and empowered. Make sure to follow us on Instagram to see our latest campaigns.
Together, let’s build a future where every girl can live free from violence and reach her full potential.
