Today, October 11, 2012, is the first ever International Day of the Girl! The United Nations announced the creation of this day to support a global move towards gender equality – calling for an end to the violence, discrimination, and economic disparities that impact girls the most.

We believe that education is an important part to bringing positive change in these areas. When girls are educated, families and communities are transformed in so many different ways. However, the unfortunate reality is that in many places, girls still aren’t valued in the same way as boys, and as such, have many more barriers keeping them from an education. This is why we are partnering with 10×10 to promote education for girls – because it’s time for things to change. We would love for you to join us!

Here are four ways for you to take action today, the International Day of the Girl:

1)     Watch the trailer for the upcoming 10×10 film, Girl Rising 

2)     Learn more about why education is important.

3)     Take a photo and upload it to the Girls + Education Photo Challenge

4)     Tell others about the International Day of the Girl!

This week ACT:S is joining with 10×10 to create awareness around the  incredible change can be made when girls have access to education. Let’s start a global conversation highlighting all the awesome things that can happen when girls are educated. What does Girls +Education equal to you? Snap a photo and show us what you think!