Written by Judi Marraccini (Information compiled from Unicef.org) / Legislative@flnow.org

On October 11^th, “International Day of the Girl“ is a global moment to celebrate girls everywhere, amplifying their voices, actions and leadership. On that day, we come together to recognize and advocate for the full spectrum of girls’ rights.

The theme this year is to end child marriage and invest in girls’ rights.

Investing in girls is one of the most powerful ways to build healthier families, stronger communities and more resilient societies.

The Facts

According to UNICEF’s 2026 estimates, an estimated one in five girls are married before age 18 across the world, representing approximately 650 million women and girls alive today who were married in childhood.

Nearly one in four married or partnered girls aged 15-19 have experienced intimate partner violence in their lifetime.

Crisis, conflict and displacement continue to increase the risk of child marriage, sexual violence and maternal mortality for girls.

Girls aged 15-19 are twice as likely as boys to not be in education, employment or training. In fragile, conflict and violence-affected contexts girls are nearly 90 per cent more likely to be out of secondary school than girls in stable contexts – increasing their risk of child marriage.

What can you do locally in Florida?

The following organizations support girls:

Girl Power Rocks is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit prevention and intervention social change program that promotes positive behavior, enhances social skills and improves academic performance in at-promise girls ages 11-17. They are based in Miami FL. Their mission is to protect the Power of Girls. “We envision a world where girls are nurtured and celebrated. We are committed to “Improving Our World, One Girl at a Time through local solutions that have global impact.”

Throughout their website, Girl Power Rocks, they use the phrase “at promise” instead of “at risk”.

Girls Inc. is another local organization, local chapters are in Sarasota, Pinellas and Lakeland.

Girls Inc. inspires girls to be strong, smart and bold. Their core programs and focus areas: STEM Education, Life Skills & Financial Literacy, Leadership & Advocacy, and Health & Mental Well-being.