Have you ever heard the statement “girls aren’t supposed to do that?” Well, for young girls in the midst of puberty, hearing this statement can be discouraging. With the new things that come along with the puberty stage and society’s “limitations,” young girls face enough, and it’s time to strike down the #likeagirl statements and society’s box that place young girls in the category to just be girly and do “girl stuff.”
This is what Always is doing with their ads and videos #LikeAGirl. When I saw the first commercial ad, I was so happy, because we are finally changing the conversation and knocking down traditional gender roles. My favorite part of this ad was when young girls got the opportunity to knock down a box. On each box girls were asked to write statements or things people have told them they cannot do because they are a girl. Knocking down the box was a great way for these young girls to make a bold statement and take a stand against society’s norms.
Why is this important? The first reason for me is personal. As an Auntie, big cousin and god sister to young girls, it is important for me to assure them that they can do anything they put their minds to. Whether it is taking on a challenge at school or participating in a club, it is imperative that I encourage them. The second reason is that it is time that we reconstruct and redefine statements such as “like a girl.” In People Magazine, Diana Pearl talks more about the campaign. In her article she states, “according to an Always survey, 72 percent of girls feel that societal expectations limit them.” In that 72 percent are future women leaders, lawyers, doctors, politicians, athletes, authors, artists, and so much more, but society won’t see it that way because of the expectations that girls aren’t supposed to pursue careers that challenge them.
This number is a very large portion of young girls, and if we don’t talk about this issue and reconstruct the norm, this percentage can increase. I stand with Always as they spread this message of redefining what it means to do things "like a girl," and I will continue to spread the message. To all young girls out there: Remember that you are unstoppable and do not back down because of societal norms. Continue to strive, be yourself, and always remember to put your mind to what you want to do. So here’s to changing the conversation and knocking down the norms one box at a time. Please take the time out to watch the Always #LikeAGirl ad, and don’t forget to comment about this subject. Until next time!
