This story is tough, but must be told.
In Nepal, child marriage looks like this.
These are boys forced to be men and fathers – too soon. Some as young as 7. 7! You guys, my sweet girl will be 7 this summer. As a mom, as a parent, as a human being, I don’t understand how this can even happen.
My heart breaks for these innocent people.
The legal age of marriage in Nepal is 18. Of course that is largely ignored for boys and girls. Here’s why they believe marriage needs to happen so soon.
Fear that good wives will be gone
Control of sexuality
Protect Family Honor
Ease the burden of home chores
Families struggling to feed themselves get sons married early for a dowry of livestock, furniture and other goods.
The list goes on. Most of these boys must quit school and instead work to provide for their new family. Poverty sets in, and the cycle continues.
And it’s so hard to hear. But we must hear it to help. You can help. I can help. We can help.
Here’s how:
Former child grooms have emerged as powerful voices in the movement to end child marriage in Nepal. We can help them fight this battle. Stand alongside the men in Nepal who are fighting to stop child marriage, and join CARE’s efforts in raising awareness about this cause.
Visit CARE to learn more about child grooms and voice your support by signing a pre-drafted letter to your members of congress.
Together, we can help.
CARE is a leading humanitarian organization fighting global poverty with a commitment to empowering women and girls. CARE is committed to its mission to serve individuals and families in the poorest communities in the world. CARE seeks a world of hope, tolerance and social justice, where poverty has been overcome and people live in dignity and security.