Exactly ten years ago, the United Nations proclaimed International Day of the Girl for the first time. Every October 11th, imaginative campaigns draw attention to discrimination and the rights of girls – so that they have the same opportunities as boys. There will also be celebrations in Munich, with a party on Marienplatz. A conversation with Lisa Hyna, 32, who is involved with the children’s rights organization Plan International Germany.
SZ: Why do we need an International Day of the Girl?
Lisa Hyna: We want to draw attention to the rights of girls and the situation of girls. They need to be empowered to do their thing. They should realize that they are important, that they play a role and that they need attention.
But there is already an International Women’s Day and an International Children’s Day, so why do we need an International Day for the Girl?
Because the needs are different. Women are in different life situations than children. It is important to deal specifically with girls, because unfortunately there are still differences in the opportunities girls and boys have. Girls are often brought up to make themselves small, to be quieter. And putting their own needs aside. We want to encourage them not to let themselves be thrown off their path just because others expect something different from them.
Lisa Hyna, 32, attends the International Day of the Girl celebration at Marienplatz.
(Photo: private)
Why is it so important that International Day of the Girl is also celebrated in Munich – and not only in countries where women have fewer educational opportunities?
Of course, the children in Munich are more privileged than in many other parts of the world, it has to be said. Nevertheless, it is still the case here that girls or young women decide against professions because they are male-dominated. In doing so, they should definitely insist that these sectors also benefit when female values are introduced. It’s just about creating a level playing field. It’s not there in Germany either. This includes on the one hand that the men release the stage, but on the other hand that the women then move up. A day like this helps to boost the girls here with self-confidence.
What could be better in Munich right now?
Discrimination needs to be looked at more sensitively. For example, when we address this issue to school directors and politicians, we always say: “Of course. We’ve got an eye on it.” But the question is what is really being done. Do I make sure in class that I really don’t work with clichés? I think more training is needed.
What do you wish for the girls, for the future?
That when girls end up in situations where they realize they are being disadvantaged, they speak up. That they say openly and courageously: “I’m just realizing that I’m not being treated equally. I know that that’s probably not meant in a bad way. But it violates my rights.” And then the appeal should come that we should please take a look together at how we could do it better.
International Day of the Girl is celebrated on Tuesday, October 11, at Marienplatz from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Mayor Katrin Habenschaden (Greens), the city’s equal opportunities officer, Nicole Lassal, and several city councilors will speak. In the evening at 7 p.m. there will be a panel discussion in the Hoftheater im Stemmerhof. Because of the energy crisis, the pink lighting of city buildings like in the past World Girl Days is being abandoned.