Malala Yousafzai, Age 16 (Continued)
Malala Yousafzai (you-sahf-ZIGH), on her 16th birthday, spoke at the United Nations Youth Assembly. This was just nine months after a Pakistani Taliban gunman tried to silence her from speaking out about the right of girls to be educated. Her speech was so powerful that the UN soon declared the day, her birthday, as “Malala Day” in her honor. Six of the many major points of her speech included:
One: Thanks to God and people worldwide who helped, prayed for her, and sent cards and gifts after she was shot in the head by a Taliban gunman six months earlier.
Two: Bullets from the terrorist could not silence or change her. She explained, “…nothing changed in my life except this: Weakness, fear and hopelessness died. Strength, power and courage was born…We realize the importance of our voice when we are silenced.”
Three: She does not seek revenge, rather education for every child, especially the Taliban. She maintains a philosophy of non-violence, forgiveness, and of loving everyone.
Four: Now it’s time to speak up, to call upon world leaders to protect the rights and dignity of women and children, protect them from brutality and harm.
Five: All governments need to ensure free compulsory education for every child, and expand education for girls in the developing world.
Six: “We must believe in the power and strength of our words. Our words can change the world.” Our books and pens, “are our most powerful weapons. One child, one teacher, one book can change the world. Education is the only solution.”
Malala’s entire speech may be read at: www.Malala.org
(United Nations, New York: July 12, 2013)