10 states could outlaw child marriage this year
From Krysta Bisnauth, Freedom United
| Child marriage remains a grim reality in the United States, leaving countless young girls vulnerable to forced child marriage—a form of modern slavery. As we observe Child Abuse Prevention Month, we have a pivotal opportunity to effect change. Right now, strong legislation to ban marriage under 18—no exceptions—is pending in 10 states: Arizona, Hawaii, Kansas, Maine, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, and Texas. It’s a big step forward in ending forced child marriage in the US—a practice that strips children of their rights and too often traps them in abuse. Your voice can help turn these bills into law. |
| Power the call |
I had my first child at 15 and three by the time I was 22. The trauma of that child marriage has followed me my entire life.” —Survivor
| Survivors have courageously shared the profound and lasting trauma inflicted by child marriage and the difficulty in getting out. Yet, despite these warnings, the US has no national law banning child marriage or setting a minimum age to marry. And while 11 states have stepped up to outlaw it completely, girls in 39 states are still vulnerable to forced marriage. We can change that. But we need your help to push these bills over the line. Raising the legal age to 18 reduces the risk of coercion and abuse. It ensures girls have the legal rights to resist forced marriage—and makes it crystal clear that marrying a minor is a crime. |
| Take action now |
“I’m very grateful for where I am because it could have turned out so much worse and also…to advocate for those who don’t have the strength. Cause I look back at that point and it’s like what if I just gave up? What if I just went inward and accepted my fate?” —Survivor, Mandy Havlik
Your support is vital. By taking action today, you help ensure that no child is forced into a marriage against their will.
Stand with us to end child marriage now.
In solidarity,
Krysta and the team supporting the Freedom United community.
| Krysta Bisnauth Advocacy Manager, Freedom United |
