Despite efforts by the U.S. government, the United Nations, and others to improve the lives of women and girls in Afghanistan, most still do not enjoy even basic human rights. But you have the power to help them.
The Afghan Women Empowerment Act (S. 229), which was introduced by Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA), would provide critical resources for Afghan women for:
- Literacy education,
-
Technical and vocational training,
- Health care services that would reduce maternal and infant mortality,
- Programs to protect women and girls against sexual and physical abuse, abduction, trafficking and exploitation, and
- Emergency shelters for women and girls who face danger from violence.
In recent months, attacks against schools that educate girls have increased substantially. As the U.S. works to foster democracy in Afghanistan, we must be vigilant in ensuring that women take their rightful place in Afghan society.
Please urge your senator to co-sponsor the Afghan Women Empowerment Act today, and give millions of women and girls a better chance in life.
Subject: Co-sponsor The Afghan Women Empowerment Act of 2009
Dear Senator
[Last Name],
Despite efforts by the U.S. government, the United Nations, and others to improve the lives of women and girls in Afghanistan, most still do not enjoy even basic human rights.
[Your personal comments will be added here.]
That is why I am writing to urge you to become a co-sponsor of The Afghan Women Empowerment Act of 2009 (S. 229) introduced by Barbara Boxer (D-CA). If passed, this bill will strengthen and empower women and girls in Afghanistan by providing critical resources to non-governmental organizations working to promote literacy education; provide essential health care services; protect women and girls from trafficking, abuse and sexual violence; and assist especially vulnerable populations such as widows and orphans.
This bill is critical as the maternal death rate for Afghan women is tragically high -- with an estimated 1,600 deaths for every 100,000 live births. The bill provides equipment, medical supplies and other assistance to health care facilities to reduce maternal and infant mortality.
Your commitment to help empower women and girls is critical not only to their future, but also to the stability of Afghanistan as a nation.
In recent months, attacks against schools that educate girls have increased substantially. As the U.S. works to foster democracy in Afghanistan, we must be vigilant in ensuring that women take their rightful place in Afghan society. This includes funding to help establish primary and secondary schools for girls; expanding vocational training; and providing special educational opportunities for girls whose schooling was ended by the Taliban.
Please co-sponsor The Afghan Women Empowerment Act of 2009 to support women and girls in Afghanistan and give them opportunities to build a better life.
I look forward to your response on this important issue.
