Introduction

This document outlines the key milestones of my GIRLtopia journey, highlighting the steps taken towards envisioning and advocating for gender equality. Each milestone represents a significant moment of learning, insight, and action towards creating a world where all genders have equal opportunities and rights.

1. Understanding and Advocacy

Date: Dec 1, 2023

Activities: Exploration of key topics like networking, making ethical decisions, and the courage to speak up.

Insights: Realization of the importance of advocating for gender equality across all genders.

2. Envisioning GIRLtopia

Date: Dec 1, 2023

Activities: Reflection on questions about a world with gender equality.

Insights: The vision of a world where girls have equal opportunities and rights.

3. Platform for Voices

Date: Dec 8, 2023

Activities: Creation of a survey to research female leadership.

Insights: Understanding the power of voice and the unique perspectives women bring to leadership roles.

4. Art as Advocacy

Date: Jan 18, 2024 - Feb 12, 2024

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Activities: Creation and submission of a painting representing GIRLtopia.

Insights: Using art to inspire conversations and express ideals of equality.

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5. Drafting the GIRLS Bill of Rights

Date: Dec 17, 2023

Activities: Creation of the GIRLS Bill of Rights.

Insights: Affirmation of girls' rights to dignity, equality, and opportunity.

Details:

We declare these rights to be self-evident that all girls:
- Are equal to all genders
- Should have their voices heard
- Should not be subject to any discriminating stereotypes
- Get the same opportunities as men/other genders
- Should be just as protected by the government
- Should not be oppressed and told to remain “silent”
- Should gain money based on their merit
- Should have the choice to make their own important decisions

6. Expression Through Poetry

Activities: Writing a poem about girl equality and GIRLtopia.

Insights: Poetry as a medium to express strength, ambition, and potential of girls beyond stereotypes.

Details:

Pink ain't my color, forget the frills
This brain's got circuits, coding skills.
No time for gossip 'bout boys and dates
I'm building robots, escaping fates.
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They say 'be quiet,' 'girls can't compete'
But hold my phone, watch my coding feat.
They want us baking, stuck in the kitchen
But my future's vast, a world unbidden.

Equality's the anthem, loud and clear
No damsel act, we conquer every fear.
Science labs, not just prom night dreams
Smashing stereotypes, breaking down seams.

So step aside, 'cause girls are on fire
Our voices rise, reaching ever higher.
This world's our canvas, dreams take flight
Equality's our future, burning bright.

7. Letter to My Role Model

Date: Feb 12, 2024

Insights: The impact of powerful female role models on a girl's aspirations and confidence.

Details:

Dear Mom,

You inspire me because you work hard every day at work. You care about everything, and when there’s a problem to be fixed, you fix it. You are not afraid to speak your opinion, even when others might not agree with it. You are selfless, caring, and strong. You are also very artistic, which inspires me to continue working on all of my art projects outside of school. You always do what is best for me. This is why I consider you a huge role model in my life.

Love, Sahana

Conclusion

Reflecting on this journey, each milestone has been a step forward in understanding and advocating for gender equality. These experiences have not only enriched my perspective but also fueled my commitment to creating a more inclusive world. I invite everyone to join in this ongoing movement towards achieving GIRLtopia, a world where equality reigns supreme.

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