In recognition of the critical issues facing young women, The Women’s Giving Circle of Howard County endorses the campaign to establish a Day of the Girl to raise awareness and influence decision-makers about addressing gender-based discrimination. 

Howard County Executive Ken Ulman and the Howard County Council will proclaim Sept. 22, 2011, “The Day of the Girl” in Howard County.  The Joint Proclamation notes that the Day of the Girl campaign is designed to recognize that girls worldwide face many injustices. 

“Howard County, Maryland, has historically been a leader in commitment to education, human rights and a quality of life for all citizens,” according to the proclamation, “and it is fitting for Howard County Government to join School Girls Unite and other local and state organizations to speak out against gender-based injustices, celebrate all girls’ potential, and encourage all girls to pursue their dreams.”

“The Women’s Giving Circle supports efforts to eradicate gender-based discrimination and its harmful effects,” said Advisory Board Chair Cynthia Taliano.  “The Day of the Girl is about highlighting, celebrating, discussing, and advancing girls’ lives and opportunities across the globe.”

The Women’s Giving Circle is a community of women philanthropists addressing the needs of women and girls in Howard County. WGC’s grantmaking is strategic and proactive and focuses on programs that increase the life skills of women and girls, encourage the healthy development and personal authority of young girls and raise the awareness of gender disparities in the community.

WGC was founded in 2002 and has over 900 donors, who have contributed and pledged over $900,000 to its donor advised fund with The Columbia Foundation, Howard County’s community foundation.  For information, visit www.womensgivingcircle.org.