We react with horror and outrage when we hear about the treatment of girls and young women in other countries.
Yet we allow girls and young women to experience the same treatment in the U.S., and they remain invisible in our families and communities.
Girls @ the margin
Girls, young women and their families @ the margin live each day facing major obstacles not of their own making. The majority are survivors of child sexual, physical and emotional abuse and neglect, grew up in homes marked by persistent domestic violence and substance abuse, and they continue to experience violence in their lives.
As a result, they bear the life long burden of healing from trauma and face profound issues such as social isolation, addiction, depression and re-victimization.
Big challenges
Girls @ the margin live in rural and urban poverty, are disproportionately young women of color, and many are young single mothers. Moreover, many are in (or are at risk of involvement in) foster care, juvenile justice, are homeless or have experienced sexual commercial exploitation and domestic trafficking.
Take action now
The future of girls @ the margin must not be determined by their past. Break the silence and act! Join us - your support makes a difference.
