International Day of the Girl Child 2024: Film Screening & Community Dialogue

In commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child, Safe Haven Cameroon in partnership with Action for Development and Empowerment (ADE) will host a powerful community film screening and dialogue session in Yaoundé, Cameroon, to spotlight the realities girls continue to face globally—from barriers to education and healthcare to child marriage, female genital mutilation (FGM), and gender-based violence.

Observed each year on October 11, the International Day of the Girl Child is a United Nations initiative aimed at recognizing girls’ rights and the unique challenges they face worldwide. In 2024, Safe Haven will use this occasion not only to raise awareness but also to ignite meaningful community conversations about dismantling harmful practices and building a future where girls can live, learn, and lead free from fear and limitation.

Film Screening: The Color Purple (1985)

The centerpiece of the event will be the screening of the critically acclaimed film The Color Purple (1985 version), a moving portrayal of the life, struggles, and triumphs of African American girls and women in the early 20th century. Through the eyes of the protagonist Celie, the film explores deeply rooted societal issues that continue to affect girls today child marriage, intimate partner violence, sexual abuse, female disempowerment, and systemic inequality.

By selecting this film, Safe Haven seeks to draw thematic parallels between the historical oppression depicted and the current experiences of many girls across Cameroon and the world. The film will serve as a mirror and a megaphone reflecting uncomfortable truths while amplifying calls for change.

The screening will be followed by a community dialogue session, allowing participants to process what they’ve seen, share personal reflections, and discuss how the issues presented relate to their lives and communities. The conversation will be guided by trained facilitators and mental health professionals to ensure a safe and supportive environment for all attendees.