To the Editor:
She just wanted girls her age to be able to go to school. Malala Yousafzai of Pakistan was the youngest recipient of the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts in advocating the right of education for children and women. In 2012, she was targeted by the Taliban and severely wounded by a gunshot when returning home from school. The then 15-year old was singled out, along with her father, for advocating for girls’ education. After recuperating she continued to speak out despite death threats. In 2013, she addressed the United Nations exhorting that “One child, one teacher, one book, and one pen can change the world.”
When receiving the Nobel Peace Prize, Malala implored, “I have the right of education. I have the right to play. I have the right to sing. I have the right to talk. I have the right to go to market. I have the right to speak up.” Her courageous voice illustrates that the power of active nonviolence is greater than violence and intimidation. We could take a lesson from her.
On Thursday, March 17, at 6:30 p.m., the Franciscan Peace Center will host a free screening of the film “He Named Me Malala” about Malala Yousafzai. The event will take place at The Canticle — home of the Sisters of St. Francis — 841 13th Ave. N., Clinton. For more information, visit www.ClintonFranciscans.com or call (563) 242-7611.
Nancy Miller, OSF,
Spirituality Director
Franciscan Peace Center, Clinton
