International Day for Malala – July 12, 2022
Many will remember Malala, who at age 17, received the Nobel Peace Prize for advocating on behalf of young girls in her country, Pakistan to receive an education along with the boys who were schooled without question. Pakistan was under the rule of the Taliban and still today education for young girls is forbidden. As a youngster wanting the opportunity to learn, Malala defied this rule and went to school – and one day was brutally attacked for her action against the rules of the Government. This forced her family to flee Pakistan for medical help and also to protect her family members. Her passion and commitment did not wane and up to the present day, Malala continues to use her voice on behalf of the many girls and women desiring an education in her country and other countries around the world.
On July 12, 2013, the United Nations called for world wide access to education with the institution of Malala Day. Her words that day still are heard across our broken world: “Malala Day is not my day. Today is the day of every woman, of every girl, of every boy who have raised their voice for their rights.” (UN Address, July 12, 2013)
A line from our own Sisters of St. Joseph Statement, Moving With Love, comes to mind for personal reflection on the current situation in our world:
“We commit to risk taking and justice making”…
What risks do we need to take to build a more just world for all?
Where are we being invited to use our voice to promote justice for all?
-Sister Ann MacDonald, csj