GIRL BE HEARD INSTITUTE

Brooklyn, New York, 11201 United States

Mission Statement

Girl Be Heard develops, amplifies, and celebrates the voices of young women through socially conscious theatre-making.

About This Cause

By encouraging girls to be heard, GBH nurtures their creativity, artistic talents, confidence, and self-esteem. We know from experience that when a girl finds her voice on stage, she will use that strengthened voice to knock down barriers in all areas of her life, and advance to a healthier and more productive life. Being a girl is risky business. 7 out of 10 girls have or will experience physical or sexual violence in their lives--just one way society keeps girls down . A fear of speaking out feeds the cycle of more violence against girls . Nearly 75% of NYC’s 800,000 girls are of color, and a significant portion live in poverty . These statistics demonstrate that on top of the obstacles girls already face (including teen pregnancy, sexual violence, bullying, and negative body image), NYC girls also navigate the complex intersection of race, class, and gender inequality—all during their most formative years. Experts note that girls possess abundant creative energies; care deeply about social justice issues; and desire to channel these energies into structured, artistic pursuits. Experts further agree that what best equips girls for long-term success is the chance to explore their passions. Yet despite these findings, there is a dearth of services providing girls with the specific support they need to flourish creatively, socially, and professionally. In low-income areas, public schools care more about boosting test scores than fostering girls’ diverse strengths and talents . GBH addresses this need by using theatre, education, and storytelling to engage girls. Our listening model provides a fearless space for girls to speak honestly, develop community, express themselves, think critically, hone artistic and leadership skills, and become activists for issues they care about.

GIRL BE HEARD INSTITUTE
20 Jay St #210B
Brooklyn, New York 11201
United States
Phone 7182224475
Twitter @GirlBeHeard
Unique Identifier 271848709