Gillian Fitzpatrick is a journalist and currently holds the position of Press Officer for Nessa Childers, MEP, working on her campaign for the May 2014 European elections. She is a former Features Editor at the Irish Daily Mail and is now a regular contributor to the Irish Independent’s Health & Living section. She has recently appeared on TV3’s Midday and on RTE Radio. She lives in Rathmines with her husband, James, and daughter, Giulia.
Because I am a Girl I ask … for my hard work, my talents and my achievements all to be recognised and rewarded without bias, discrimination or prejudice.
Because I am a Girl I believe … that I can do anything I set my mind to, even when sometimes there are obstacles in the way.
Because I am a Girl I hope … my daughter will enjoy more equality and opportunity than was afforded to me – just as, growing up, I had prospects my mother could have only dreamed of.
Because I am a Girl I wonder … when courtrooms, politics and salaries will more accurately reflect our dynamic and modern nation.
Because I am a Girl I dream … of a time when no one will feel constrained because of their gender, sexuality, physical ability, education or socio-economic background.
Because I am a Girl I remember … how hard men and women once fought so that the latter could do something as simple as vote. Don’t take that for granted – everyone should make sure they’re included on the electoral register so that they can exercise their democratic right as often as possible.
Because I am a Girl I like … to think that progress towards global gender equality is being made, little by little, every day.
Because I am a Girl I dislike … when I hear stories and experiences that make me question whether this is true – and whether it ever will be.
Because I am a Girl I feel … very lucky, because I wouldn’t have it any other way!
Because I am a Girl I celebrate… my family and friends, who come from all sorts of weird and wonderful backgrounds.