The International Day of Women and Girls of African Descent was observed for the first time on 25 July. This day highlights the urgent need to shift from symbolic gestures to meaningful actions, such as increased investment in education, breaking down harmful stereotypes, and ensuring women and girls of African descent are represented in leadership roles.
In Basrah, Iraq, Hanadi Saad Al Farhan, a community development professional and former UN fellow of African descent, noted that individuals of African descent remain largely invisible in public discourse. She emphasized that commemorating this day provides an important platform for these communities to share their experiences and claim their rightful place in society.
Echoing this view, Justina Obaoye-Ajala, an international human rights lawyer and senior fellow for Indigenous and minority rights, also stressed the significance of this observance. She underscored how crucial it is for women and girls of African descent to be recognized and empowered as part of broader global human rights efforts.
