International Day for Street Children: A Global Stand for the Voiceless
Every year on April 12, the world observes the International Day for Street Children, which was created to give voice to homeless children and ensure that their rights are not overlooked. It also gives human rights organizations a chance to raise awareness of the predicament of street children around the world. With the combined efforts of governments, human rights organizations, and individuals, it is possible to rehabilitate and place street children in loving homes and provide them with education, medical care, and skills for a better life.
History of International Day for Street Children
The Convention on the Rights of the Child, held by the United Nations in 1989, discussed rights that all children should have. This includes the right to a stable, loving, and nurturing environment; the right to live in dignity and freedom, healthcare and nutrition; clean water and electric power; and equal opportunities.
Children living on the streets do not have these rights, and organizations like the Consortium for Street Children (C.S.C.) are working to implement the Four Steps to Equality, which include committing to equality, protecting every child, granting access to services, and developing new solutions, to lessen the risks that street children face.
According to statistics, 150 million children globally are homeless. Some children live with their families on the streets, while others spend most of their time there begging for food and money but come home at night. Some children are homeless because they have no family or place to go back to. These children are deprived of a lot of fundamental human rights.
There are various reasons why children end up on the street. One of the most common reasons is living in an environment affected by war and violence. Children in this situation are either separated from their family or their family members have died. When family members abuse children, some of them leave the house. Other reasons include being forced into illegal activity, experiencing health issues, or being rejected by their family. No matter what the circumstance is, street children are often denied an education, health care, and opportunities to live a respectable life.
The importance of observing International Day for Street Children
International Day for Street Children is important for various reasons. These include:
a. Ensuring equal rights for children
International Day for Street Children is one of the few occasions that draws attention to the predicament of street children and works to protect their rights.
b. Hope for a better future
International Day for Street Children seeks to create a future in which all children live in loving homes and their human rights are protected.
c. It fosters empathy
We often forget that people need our help and that even a small act of kindness can make a big difference in their lives. Events like International Day for Street Children inspire us to do our part.
Ways to celebrate International Day for Street Children
Below are some of the ways we can celebrate this day.
i. Attend a seminar
On International Day for Street Children, the C.S.C. and numerous other human rights organizations host fundraising events, panel discussions, and informational seminars. You can educate yourself by going to these events.
ii. Donate or raise funds
Make a donation or organize a fundraiser for the C.S.C., another nonprofit, or a ministry that assists homeless children. Observing the International Day for Street Children in this way is commendable.
iii. Volunteer your time
Another way to celebrate this day is to serve as a volunteer for a group that helps homeless children. One can also volunteer to teach these children a skill.
iv. Buy from businesses that support street children
To help better the lives of street children, everyone is encouraged to buy products or services from businesses that employ or support street children or urge others to do the same.
Conclusion
By commemorating International Day for Street Children, we can bring much-needed attention to the overlooked children on the streets. It is our responsibility to support and carry on the efforts of people and organizations supporting and bringing lasting change for these children.
