Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Issues Call to Action for the Release of Abducted Nigerian Girls

WASHINGTON, May 8, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Executive Committee, National Executive Board, and members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. extend words and prayers of comfort and express their strong support for the families of the abducted Nigerian girls and young women as they seek the immediate safe return of their children who were taken in the middle of the night from the Government Girls Secondary School. The April 14 abductions have resulted in an international outcry concerning the safety, security and advancement for these girls and for women and girls all over the world.

"The question has been asked, 'Why should we care?' We care because these young girls represent all women and girls who commit themselves to educational and economic empowerment for self-improvement and productive contributions to society," said Dr. Paulette C. Walker, National President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. "We can't let this be the new normal. This mass abduction reminds us of the obstacles that women and children, especially girls, face globally in an effort to attain basic freedoms – their civil and human rights."

As a Non-Governmental Organization for the United Nations, Delta Sigma Theta is charged with the responsibility to monitor the status of women and children in the world and bind together with other NGOs to ensure that the United Nations honors its commitments. We must ensure that our daughters of the Diaspora are being protected and supported as they exercise their human rights.  The organization is in agreement with the Bipartisan Resolution Condemning Abduction of School Girls in Nigeria introduced by U.S. senators, which states, "The empowerment of women and girls is inextricably linked to the potential of countries to generate economic growth, sustainable democracy and inclusive security. When women and men have equal access to educational resources, economies flourish, families strengthen and societies move forward."

At this time, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. calls upon each of its members to further their involvement by: following the International Black Women's Public Policy Institute's Call to Action at http://ibwppi.org/; going on Facebook and liking the "Bring Back Our Girls" page; using social media to raise awareness; and joining in marches, rallies and other activities taking place across the nation. Future alerts/information/suggestions will be sent to members as developments occur and more information is received. We must be vigilant in our efforts to encourage national and international authorities to expend their available resources to aid in the return of these young women, unharmed, and to end this crisis.

Our thoughts and prayers will remain with the families of the girls and young women throughout this ordeal. It is our humanitarian responsibility. We are committed to making global issues local, especially atrocities such as this.

Contact:
Ella McNair
(202) 986-2400
[email protected]

Shambulia Gadsden Sams
(202) 986-2400
[email protected]

SOURCE Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.