As the 100th anniversary of International Women's Day nears, Afghan women remain among the most discriminated against and brutalized women in the world.
This year, more than ever, they need our support.
Afghanistan is currently undergoing peace negotiations that will determine the future of the country - negotiations which Afghan women are excluded from fully participating in.
On March 8, 2011, people will join together on bridges all over the world to celebrate International Women's Day and show solidarity with the women of Afghanistan. The goal is to make a public statement that strong women build bridges of peace.
Last year, Women for Women International had amazing success in putting together the first ever global bridge campaign, in which over 20,000 women across four continents took part in 108 different bridge events. 2011 is going to be bigger and better, with bridge events being planned on five continents, in 24 countries and in 9 different time zones.
If you'd like to participate, visit Women for Women International to find an event near you. Then sign the petition supporting the Afghan Women Empowerment Act, which calls on Congress to provide critical resources for Afghan women for literacy education, technical and vocational training and health care services; programs to protect women and girls against sexual and physical abuse, abduction, trafficking and exploitation; and emergency shelters for women and girls who face danger from violence.
As we know, the U.S. government doesn't have the best track record for providing constructive support for the people of Afghanistan. We can change that by encouraging Congress to pass the Afghan Women Empowerment Act and then getting out to a bridge event on March 8th to show the world that we truly support the women of Afghanistan.
Winning this and similar campaigns depends on our ability to quickly call on thousands of supportive folks like you. After signing the petition below, please click here to follow us on Facebook - just click ‘Like’ at the top of the page.
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