Hi John – Every 3 seconds, a girl under 18 is forced to marry, putting her health, safety and future at risk. Girls are three times more likely than boys to be out of school, and two times more likely to be subjected to sexual violence. Girls make up half of the world’s population, yet their education is less likely to be valued and their voices are less likely to be heard. When they’re denied opportunities to lead their communities and influence decisions about their own lives, the world suffers. Tell your members of Congress: it’s time to act for girls around the world. Support the Girls LEAD Act today! 17-year-old Asia is a fierce advocate for girls. As a member of the children’s council in Zanzibar, Tanzania, she fights to strengthen child protection policies and encourage children to report abuse. Asia knows that girls like her are especially vulnerable to gender-based violence, discrimination and denial of an education. She says that many children in her community aren’t even aware of their rights. Campaigning with the council has allowed Asia to engage with these kids, educate the public about child safety and remind girls that the world is at their fingertips! John, girls like Asia can change the world. Will you send a quick message to your members of Congress urging them to empower girls by co-sponsoring the Girls Leadership, Engagement, Agency and Development (LEAD) Act? The Girls LEAD Act is designed to target foreign aid programs to promote girls’ civic engagement. This bipartisan legislation also includes accountability measures to ensure that U.S. funding is achieving its goals. It’s no secret that empowering girls builds more stable democracies and economies. It helps reduce violence and increases educational opportunities. Empowering girls creates a more equal world for everyone. Help girls create a brighter future for themselves and their communities – send a message to your members of Congress today! Thank you for being a voice for kids, | 
