Key Messages About Safety for Girls

• We are all affected by violence whether we are directly involved or are witnesses.
• No one deserves to be the victim of violence.
• Girls are never to blame for the violence they suffer.
• Girls are not to blame for not knowing the "right thing" to do when confronted by violence. Whatever they do to survive the situation is okay.
• Talking about violence helps girls recognize violence and become more aware of options.
• Much of the violence against girls is “invisible”, happening at home.
• Most girls are hurt by people they know, so they need to know how to judge individuals by their behaviors and actions.
• Telling a trusted adult can help stop threatening situations and help the child heal from scary and hurtful situations.
• There are different strategies for different girls to use in different (potentially or actually violent) situations.
• There is no one “right thing” to do in every situation.

From Girls Inc.® "Action For Safety" curriculum, a self-defense & violence prevention program for girls ages 9-11.
Girls Inc. of NYC
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Inspiring all girls to be Strong, Smart and Bold