FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Coalition Forms to Eradicate Child Marriage in Washington: Unchained at Last and Zonta Clubs Join Forces to Protect Children’s Rights”
[Everett,WA 9-6-2023] — Unchained at Last, the leading national organization dedicated to ending child and coerced marriage in the United States, and the Zonta Clubs of Washington are proud to announce the formation of the Washington Coalition to End Child Marriage. This groundbreaking coalition, is committed to putting an end to child marriage in Washington, where there is currently no minimum age for marriage. The coalition is working closely with legislators to ensure that HB 1455, passed in the WA state house, but stalled in the Senate, passes in the 2024 legislative session, following the lead of ten other states that have taken action to protect the rights and well-being of children in recent years.Child marriage is a deeply concerning issue that affects the lives and futures of countless young individuals across the country, and Washington is one of the remaining states without a minimum age for marriage. Parental approval and Judicial review have proven to be monstrous loopholes that allow for huge numbers of children to marry, losing rights, autonomy and futures. The practice of child marriage exposes children to severe risks, including the loss of education, limited economic opportunities, and an increased vulnerability to economic, physical and emotional abuse.
The Washington Coalition to End Child Marriage believes that every child should have the opportunity to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment, free from the harmful effects of child marriage. Our coalition is dedicated to raising awareness, advocating for policy change, and ensuring that Washington follows the example of states like Michigan, Vermont, Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Minnesota, and Delaware, which have successfully eliminated child marriage in the past seven years.
- Join the Coalition: We invite other organizations passionate about child welfare and ending child marriage to join our coalition. Together, we can amplify our efforts and create a safer and more just future for children in Washington
- Community Engagement: Stay tuned for upcoming events, educational initiatives, and advocacy opportunities to get involved in this crucial cause.
Child marriage is a pressing issue that demands urgent attention and action. By forming the Washington Coalition to End Child Marriage, we are taking a significant step toward ensuring that all children in our state can lead lives free from the burdens of early and forced marriages.
We call upon individuals, organizations, and lawmakers across Washington to stand with us in this important mission. Together, we can make a difference and protect the rights and futures of our children.
For more information about the Washington Coalition to End Child Marriage and how to get involved, please contact:
Katherine Cleland Zonta@clelandmarketing.omc