Each year, the British International School of Washington observes World Children's Day, an initiative by the United Nations. It takes place on November 20 and is an opportunity to discuss important topics related to children's welfare. BISW celebrated World Children's Day early on Friday, November 19.
We caught up with our Global Goals club co-presidents, Jasmin and Leo, who spent the week leading up to World Children's Day encouraging other students to reflect on privilege and the fundamental rights children should have. Additionally, they surveyed other students on these topics and discussed ways young people can help children everywhere. Read on to learn about our student leaders' efforts and thoughts on the day.
What is World Children's Day?
Leo: World Children's Day is a day to celebrate the declaration of the convention of the rights of a child and to celebrate the smiles of children.
Why do we need to mark this day?
Jasmin: It's essential to empower young voices and make people feel heard, especially children. It connects a large group and broadens connections among many cultures.
Leo: We want to highlight the day because millions of children worldwide can't exercise their rights. Through this day, we can raise awareness for children who deserve to exercise the same advantages as others.
What issues does this day give people a chance to discuss?
Jasmin: Mainly, it brings up topics like child labour, sexual abuse, child trafficking, child marriages, gender equality, and more. Overall, it helps people look at the rights of children.
Leo: This day allows us to discuss prevalent global issues, such as child labour and child abuse. Both are significant barriers to a country's development and bar children from accessing education. The right to an education is essential as it allows people to get out of poverty. My dad is an excellent example of someone who benefited from a great education, so I have seen what it can do to help people improve their lives.
How can the BISW community mark this day?
Jasmin: It is a lot of fun to wear blue today as a community, and it feels inclusive. Furthermore, it highlights aspects of the UNICEF Sustainable Development Goals that we aspire to follow at BISW, and in a broad sense, it relates to our international student body.
What does the day mean to you personally?
Jasmin: It highlights important issues, but it gives us a chance for self-reflection. It makes us think about our privilege. Going to a school like BISW, we should take time to think about how we can give back and help children in our own communities. Plus, it is a lot of fun to wear blue with my peers and think about improving the world together.
