LtN strives to promote equality in all aspects of our programming and decision-making. We recognize that different peoples, communities, and governments often receive privileges that others do not. Today we would like to take some time to recognize and celebrate Women’s Equality Day.
Brooke Wilson, our Communications & Development Director, plays lacrosse with a young female LtN student-athlete in Managua, Nicaragua
In U.S. history, the right to vote has always been one of the primary methods through which the people’s voice was heard. It wasn’t until August 26, 1920, that women’s right to vote was ratified after years of women fighting to speak on their own behalf. There was, and continues to be, an extended adjustment period in politics and greater society as women immerse themselves into what was long considered a “man’s world.” Moreover, there are countless communities around the globe wherein women’s rights are still far, far behind those of U.S. women.
LtN Nicaragua coach, Darien Silva, observing practice with LtN student-athlete Nathaniel
Every year, Women’s Equality Day is celebrated in the United States to serve as a reminder of the national strides towards gender equality that have been made. We at LtN use this day also as a reminder of the work that still needs to be done both domestically in the United States and abroad in our Latin American communities. Women around the world put in hard work and dedicated time to shape their lives into a product of their own imaginations, but not everywhere can their efforts translate into changed realities.
Shauna Pugliese, former LtN Panama volunteer, sharing some lacrosse insight at practice on Isla Bastimentos
LtN is proud to help young girls and women realize their full potential and to celebrate their strength. Through our all-girls programming lead by Coach and LtN Alum, Darien Silva, along with our scholarships and tutoring programs, we aim to provide safe and reliable spaces for girls to exercise, compete, learn about themselves, and observe strong role models.
We celebrate Women’s Equality Day and remind ourselves - and our audiences - that there is always more work to be done to level the playing field. We are grateful for all of the mothers, daughters, sisters, friends, cousins, and more that are role models for young girls and boys alike.
—Joanna, LtN Summer VISTA