US, UK, other foreign missions in India to celebrate 'International Day of the Girl'

New Delhi [India], Oct. 6 (ANI): Over 20 diplomatic missions here have come together to organise a range of activities highlighting the importance of the rights of women and girls around the globe to commemorate the 'International Day of the Girl' on October 11. This year, for the first time, the diplomatic missions and key government, local and international partners have organized a series of activities for 'International Day of the Girl' to increase awareness and promote discussion on the importance of girls' empowerment for the benefit of society's economic and social progress. The initiative also aims to support and complement India's 'Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao' campaign. On October 7, a 2.6 kilometre "Run for Her" will be organized in the diplomatic enclave where the mission staff, students and supporters will run alongside Shanti Path to "get moving" in support of girls' empowerment. After the run, a "Chat with Diplomats" session will also take place where senior diplomats will engage with students at the IILM Institute for Higher Education for a discussion entitled "Glass ceiling or a sticky floor?" that will focus on women in leadership roles. On October 10 and 11, participating missions will illuminate their buildings with pink lights and the Archaeological Survey of India will light-up the Qutub Minar in pink as a visual expression of support for the International Day of the Girl. Other activities such as "Bring your daughter to work" are also on tap. In collaboration with several multilateral agencies and local partners, the foreign missions have produced an "International Day of the Girl Activity Guide" which can be used as a tool to educate and build awareness among students. The guide presents facts and activities that educators can use to highlight the challenges that girls face. The guide includes links to films and videos available to schools for screenings. The guide also promotes "Gender Champions," an initiative by the Ministry of Women and Child Development that encourages the establishment of "Girls Clubs" in schools to promote greater awareness about girls' rights, justice, and gender equality. All the activities will also be promoted on social media and the participating foreign missions include Canada, Chile, Colombia, Czech Republic, Ecuador, European Union, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Malta, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Sweden, United States of America, United Kingdom, Australia and South Africa. In 2011, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution declaring October 11 as the 'International Day of the Girl' in a bid to galvanize global commitments to end gender stereotypes, discrimination, violence, and economic disparities that disproportionately affect girls. (ANI)