In an effort to strengthen the voices of the world’s 1.1 billion girls, October 11th is named International Day of the Girl Child. The day is a celebration of the strength and power of girls around the world. 

Millions of these 1.1 billion girls are denied opportunities and subjected to discrimination and violence, particularly those living in emergency situations. This combined global effort seeks to bring attention to the injustice and support girls in their creativity, energy and leadership. 

This year’s theme is “EmPOWER girls: Before, during and after conflict” and focuses on those girls in humanitarian situations around the world that need their voices to be heard now more than ever. 

This year, over 600 girls in more than 60 countries will take over positions in leadership as a statement on the importance of introducing girls to their ability to lead. These girls will work as mayors, business leaders, teachers and presidents and see what it means to have their voices heard.

Paris serves as this year’s headquarters for the #GirlsTakeover movement, and the city will host the Girls’ Rights Summit 2017 as well as a celebration with global leaders from all different industries.

People are encouraged to participate by posting pictures of places where they believe girls belong on social media with the hashtag #GirlBelongHere.