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Writer's pictureDaenielle Tuico

Empowering Equality: The Influence of English in Advocacy

A winning entry from the SISC English Club x The Mover English Fortnight 2024 Essay Writing Competition.

 

The power of the English language is undeniable. It serves as a tool for communication, empowerment, and advocacy, enabling individuals to convey their ideas, express their intentions, and demand accountability from leaders and authorities. Xhorda from Albania, Saleha from India, and Maryam from Nigeria exemplify the transformative power of words through their compelling report on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 


In 2015, world leaders made a promise to Leave No One Behind, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that everyone benefits from the SDGs, particularly those who are marginalized or disadvantaged. Xhorda, Saleha, and Maryam seized upon the power of the English language to convey this message to a global audience. Their report eloquently articulates the challenges faced by children in their respective countries – poverty, violence, discrimination, and a lack of basic services – and calls for accountability in fulfilling the pledge to Leave No One Behind. 


Central to their message is the importance of focusing on girls' empowerment. They emphasize that unless girls are educated and empowered, true progress cannot be achieved. Through their report, Xhorda, Saleha, and Maryam highlight the urgent need to prioritize girls' education and provide them with equal opportunities to pursue their dreams and aspirations. 


Beyond that, stories of women like Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani activist, became a global symbol of equality and education after surviving a Taliban assassination attempt in 2012. Her courageous advocacy for girls' education earned her the Nobel Peace Prize at just 17 years old. Malala's resilience and unwavering commitment to equality have inspired millions worldwide, challenging societal norms and advocating for the rights of girls and women in Pakistan and beyond. Through her activism and outspokenness, Malala continues to amplify the voices of marginalized communities and drive positive change for gender equality and education rights globally.


Similarly, Marta Vieira da Silva, a Brazilian footballer, utilized the power of the English language to champion women's empowerment. As an international athlete and advocate, Marta used English to share her journey, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of women in sports. Through interviews, speeches, and social media, she amplified the voices of female athletes worldwide, advocating for equal opportunities and recognition. Marta's eloquence and passion inspired millions, igniting conversations and driving progress towards gender equality in sports and beyond. Through her advocacy and leadership, Marta continues to uplift women and pave the way for future generations of athletes. 


In conclusion, the narratives of Xhorda, Saleha, Maryam, Malala Yousafzai, and Marta Vieira da Silva underscore the immense impact of the English language in advocating for equality, education, and women's empowerment globally. Through their compelling reports, courageous activism, and unwavering advocacy, they have illuminated the importance of prioritizing marginalized communities, particularly girls, in the pursuit of sustainable development goals. Their stories exemplify the transformative power of language to ignite change, challenge societal norms, and amplify the voices of the marginalized. As we reflect on their journeys, let us recognize the enduring significance of the English language as a catalyst for social progress and collective empowerment worldwide.

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