When I was growing up, I remember my mom telling me I could be anything I wanted to be. She inspired me to be bold and chase my dreams, which is exactly what I tell my two young girls at home. If their mom – a little girl from Kettle Falls – could grow up to be the 200th woman ever elected to Congress, then there is nothing they can’t do.

Unfortunately, too many girls around the world never hear those words. In fact, 129 million girls around the world are not regularly enrolled in school. That’s 129 million girls who are not being told to see their own potential, take risks, and follow their heart. It’s hard for me to think of anything more heartbreaking, which is why I believe it is mission critical to break down the barriers that are keeping girls out of school. 

This week, the House took action to help do just that by passing the Keeping Girls in School Act. This legislation will bring together the public and private sectors to create real solutions that address the obstacles facing young girls around the world trying to access a quality education. 

When we empower young girls to rise, the possibilities are endless. I truly believe that, and my hope is that this legislation will help every young girl receive the education they need to pursue their dreams.