By Darshini Dayanidhi
Girl Up at WEHS is a service and advocacy club focused on helping girls and women in the community and around the world. The club runs projects, attends educational events, and gives students chances to build leadership skills through real work.
This fall, Girl Up held a fundraiser for breast cancer patients. Students who donated wrote their names on pink ribbons that were displayed in the school. The goal was to raise money and show support for people currently going through treatment.
On November 25, the club held a meeting to plan for the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. This is an international campaign that raises awareness about violence against women and girls. Members discussed how to bring this issue to the school community and how to encourage more students to understand and support the cause.
Girl Up also went on a field trip to the Buffalo History Museum for an event hosted by the Erie County Commission on the Status of Women. Members met several local female elected officials and asked questions about their jobs, their daily routines, and their experience running for office. This was especially helpful for students who are interested in government, law, or politics, and it let them see what these careers look like in real life. Another meeting will happen in the spring, with the option to complete summer work for a capstone style project that may count toward the Seal of Civic Readiness.
Last year, Girl Up focused on helping victims of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women. Members wrote letters to Congress asking representatives to support the Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act, which helps fund victim assistance programs across the country. For seniors, this counted as an individual action for the Seal of Civic Readiness.
Girl Up’s work changes each year, but the club consistently takes on projects that support vulnerable groups and educate students about real issues. The club president, Spandana Cheruvu, encourages new members to join. She says, “Anyone can be a part of Girl Up. You just have to care about helping others. It’s really amazing to have a space at school where girls can feel supported and safe but also have real opportunities to lead and advocate for what they care about.”
Girl Up is open to all students who want to take part in service, learn about important issues, and be involved in activities that have a clear purpose.