As a kid, I considered being a teacher. My mom was dedicated to my education; she homeschooled me to promote stability in a military family, later encouraged me to attend public high school, and relentlessly supported my higher education pursuits. I had access to a multitude of educational options, opportunities, and learning environments. With the privilege of committed parents, a knack for test-taking, and a passion for learning, I thrived. As I got older, politics became more attractive than professorship, but I’m happy just knowing I have a solid foundation for options. While the American education system is far from perfect, the ideal system is within reach. But for many young women around the world, education is more a dream than a reality.
Over 25 million people around the world are refugees, displaced from their homes, without access basic necessities, often in conflict zones or at risk of violence. As families are forced from their homes, young girls are the least likely to return to school or receive an education. Refugee women and girls become more vulnerable to exploitation and sexual violence, a risk that is multiplied by a lack of educational attainment. Female refugees face increasing risks to their safety, health, and well-being as they experience displacement and conflict, and the world must take steps to protect and empower them. In the U.S., we understand the importance of education -- making K-12 schooling compulsory for all students.
Education is crucial to advancing women’s rights and opportunities. Girls’ education generates social mobility, helping girls transcend social status and overcome barriers. Expanding access to education for women can reduce extremism and promote peace, enabling them to engage in political decision-making. Higher education attainment among women can promote economic growth and increase positive health outcomes for communities. Educating women is good for the planet, too. In countries where reproductive education and resources are increased, nations save money on maternal healthcare, unwanted pregnancies, sexually transmitted diseases, and maternal mortality. When women have more control over their bodies, they can control the size of their families and decrease their carbon footprints.
It’s clear that local, national, and global benefits occur when women and girls get an education. But putting those benefits aside, we have an obligation to protect and guarantee the right to an education -- an obligation that demands action. The international community has recognized the right to education for decades. This year, Congress has the opportunity to honor that right and help women overcome the challenges of displacement. A bill introduced by senators Marco Rubio and Robert Menendez, S. 1580, the Protecting Girls’ Access to Education in Vulnerable Settings Act, calls for secure access to safe and quality education, enhanced capacity building, local solutions to refugee hosting and education, and evaluations of the effects of education on girls. Citizen action and political involvement is crucial -- senators need to hear from constituents who support the Protecting Girls’ Access to Education in Vulnerable Settings Act.
Take action now by contacting your senator to support S. 1580! Read more about the bill and education for refugees here.