This year, the theme of our Touchstone Awards luncheon is “In Her Own Words.” As a part of this theme, we have designed an activity for the event that revolves around women’s quotes. When we looked through books and websites that cataloged quotes, we looked for quotes that fit certain criteria. We wanted them to reflect on the mission of Girls Inc., either directly or indirectly, and we wanted to hear the voices of women and girls from a variety of places, careers, cultures, and times. The result was a list of quotes that we found inspiring, and hope you will too. Here are a few of our favorites!

• “Every woman with a voice is by definition a strong woman. But the search to find that voice can be remarkably difficult.”
  –Melinda Gates

This is one of our favorite quotes because it resonates with what we do here at Girls Inc. Girls who participate in programs like Girls Inc. Media Literacy, Redefining Beauty, and Work It Out all learn to find their unique voices and then use them to express themselves. We also love this quote because Gates acknowledges that finding your voice is a process that takes time and work. Additionally, Gates defines part of what it means to be a strong woman, a concept that we think about daily at Girls Inc.

• “I think the girl who is able to earn her own living and pay her own way should be as happy as anybody on earth. The sense of independence and security is very sweet.”
  –Susan B. Anthony

Although Anthony lived in a different century, her words remain true today. Independence is a goal that modern women and girls can identify with. This quote doesn’t directly address being strong, smart, or bold, but it certainly does represent the Girls Inc. mission. Many of our programs, especially our Smart programs, are designed to help girls grow into educated, self-sufficient young women.

There will be more quotes like these at the 2011 Touchstone Awards, and even the chance to share your own words with Girls Inc. girls! Those of you who are already planning to come to Touchstone can impress your table with your knowledge of these two quotes. If you haven’t bought a ticket yet, you can still share these quotes with your friends—and remember, there’s still plenty of time to purchase a ticket and join us for the event!

What are your favorite quotes by women? Which quotes have inspired you?