Dear AHA Foundation Supporter,

Last week, in honor of the International Day of the Girl Child, many of you chose to send messages of support to women and girls who are suffering from honor violence to let them know they are not alone. I have been incredibly moved by your messages of encouragement. I know they will be a source of strength to victims who seek help. You can read the beautiful messages here. If you have not yet had a chance to send your words of support – you can add them here.

In this month’s newsletter, a spotlight on Ms. Boone, our donor, is not to be missed. While visiting her father in Saudi Arabia as a young adult, Ms. Boone was struck by the abuse toward women she witnessed and experienced herself. She has chosen to speak out against these issues and support the AHA Foundation in doing so. Read here to learn more about the motivations behind her support.

Did you know that for a girl at risk of honor violence or FGM, the difference between being taken seriously by a professional or dismissed as being overly dramatic can be a matter of life or death? This past month the AHA Foundation traveled across the US training professionals who are most likely to come into contact with women and girls at risk. By working together, we continue to save lives around the country. Read here to learn more about our crucial trainings that you make possible.

Here at the AHA Foundation we are committed to fighting honor violence, and I know you are too. But how much do you actually know about this form of violence and abuse? Our blog “Five Things You Need to Know about Honor Violence” shares lesser-known facts about honor violence and why there is no quick solution.

I am often asked where I find strength to keep standing up to protect women from honor violence and oppression. The answer is – you are the source of my strength. By giving generously your time, voice and financial resources, you provide me with the encouragement to keep fighting every day.

Thank you for standing with me.

With gratitude,

Ayaan Hirsi Ali

P.S. – This October 30th, I’ll be speaking in Newton, MA, at Christians and Jews United for Israel’s 11th Annual Genesis Awards. Tickets are available here. I’d love to see AHA Foundation supporters from the area in attendance.