In parts of Africa
Girls as young as twelve
Are forcibly married.
I see nothing to celebrate in that.
In Afghanistan, the Taliban
Beat girls
For going to school.
I see nothing to celebrate in that.
In parts of the Middle East
Girls are forbidden
To learn to drive.
I see nothing to celebrate in that.
Some faiths dictate
That girls must walk
Behind boys.
I see nothing to celebrate in that.
In Europe
many girls are sold
Into sex slavery.
I see nothing to celebrate in that.
Today a Royal Princess was born,
By an accident of birth
She will suffer none of these indignities.
I can celebrate that, but nothing more.
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
Owain Glyn
