We all can get involved in making a difference for the world's women

Posted on November 2, 2009 by Wendy Carhart

For years I’ve been aware of the misogyny and desperate plight of women in many developing countries. Half the Sky was an amazing reminder not just of these issues — but of the ways in which each of us can get involved to make a difference. While many of the stories were incredibly difficult to hear — the world seems so full of misery and hatred — it was the inspiration, hope, and refusal to quit of so many that inspired me. I was surprised by some of the very simple things that can have such a huge impact, like ionization, for example. I was also surprised by the seemingly major role that educating girls and women can play in solving so many of these issues.

Talking with my 5 year old daughter about all the countries in the world — where they are, the kinds of people who live there and what life is like there — is something that we can all do to ensure the next generation grows up understanding how they can make a difference and how they can help. Talking about the role of women in economic development, reading books like Half the Sky, and sharing ways to get involved through organizations like Mercy Corps are simple ways we can all make a difference.