Courtney Summers, author of bestseller “All The Rage,” started her hashtag campaign #ToTheGirls2016 in order to send positive messages of support and empowerment to females across social media.
“We all have the power to make ourselves present for one another and to say, ‘I see you, I hear you, I’m here.'” Summers said to The Guardian. “Now more than ever, it’s important for us to consider the impact we have on one another, and to do whatever we can to ensure it’s a positive one. #ToTheGirls2016 is just one way to make that impact.”
Many Twitter uses responded by reminding women they are in control of their lives, bodies and identities.
It's okay to say yes to the things you want, no to the things you don't, and perhaps to the things you're considering. #ToTheGirls2016
— Diversity Sprinkles (@writersrepublic) January 21, 2016
#ToTheGirls2016 Be mindful of advice to "be humble." Sometimes they really mean "shrink yourself/your confidence." Screw that.
— Shannon Miller (@Phunky_Brewster) January 21, 2016
#ToTheGirls2016: Putting yourself first isn't selfish. It's brave. Don't ever apologize for wanting and needing what you want and need.
— Laurie E. Flynn (@laurellizabeth) January 21, 2016
This little girl knows what she’s talking about.
"I'm a girl. I can do whatever I want. I'm strong and I'm smart." -one of my 4 year old students. YOU TELL EM, HONEY. #ToTheGirls2016
— KK Hendin (@kkhendin) January 21, 2016
Users also reminded women that they are important, not matter what.
The world is so vast and you may feel like a small spark, a forgotten flicker. No spark is insignificant. Glow. Be you. #ToTheGirls2016
— Kaye M. (@gildedspine) January 21, 2016
But mostly, Twitter users reminded women everywhere that they don’t need society to speak for them. They can do it themselves.
#ToTheGirls2016 It's okay to struggle. It's okay to not be "strong" all the time. That doesn't make you any less worthy.
— Kody-Wan Kenobi (@Kody_Keplinger) January 21, 2016
Be you. Be awkward. Be brave. Be happy. Be EVERYTHING YOU CAN BE. #tothegirls2016
— Carmel (@oo_carmel_oo) January 12, 2016
