International Women's Day: Partnership Helps Mexican Mothers Find Their Voices and Be Heard
Letra Uno Publishes Book of Essays Written by Children International Volunteer Moms
Kansas City, MO, March 7, 2014 /3BL Media/ - Tomorrow is International Women’s Day, and this year’s theme is “Inspiring Change.” Children International has encouraged advocacy for women’s advancement by partnering with Letra Uno, a charity in Mexico that promotes literacy, to host a workshop called “Mujeres a la Voz” or “Women Speaking Out.” The workshop helped 52 volunteer mothers develop their reading skills and learn how to express themselves through writing. Now their essays are published in a book called “Mujeres a la Voz: Cincuenta historias de vida.”
Literacy can have a huge effect on a woman’s life that benefits not only her, but also her family and community. According to a statement from United Nations Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon, literate women are more engaged with the social, political and cultural life around them, are more likely to send their children to school, and are able to become more self-reliant. Literacy also empowers women to express themselves.
In the essays now published by Letra Uno in “Mujeres a la Voz,” the volunteer mothers wrote about their childhood, their families, and their dreams for the future. During the book launch events, many of the women read their stories aloud for others to hear.
When María, one of the volunteer mothers, was asked how she felt about seeing her writing in a published book, she said “I’m really happy. I never thought I was going to achieve such a big goal in my life … I feel that now I can achieve all the goals I want.”
About Children International
Children International prepares children and youth to escape the traps of poverty by supporting their critical needs, building resilience, and engaging them in transformative activities. Children International accomplishes this by providing crucial benefits and compassionate care through easily accessible, modern community centers. Children International’s presence, programs and supporters have a positive impact on children, youth, families and communities; provide protection; encourage self-sufficiency; and serve as catalysts for change.
For more information about Children International, visit www.children.org.
