<figure><img src="https://cdn.worldpulse.org/images/post/16945/25386/post_image_gallery/dc4362dca45f398ab085b3cc75f140ee/free_falling.jpg" alt /><figcaption></figcaption></figure>Free-falling into despair, I stretch upwards gasping for air. Reaching towards the source of light, I welcome the soft glow through a long dark night. Unfamiliar faces on a computer screen Bearing tales of hardship Of which I can only dream. Sex slaves, OPP's (Other People's Property), Girls in bondage, Women raped, Sexual harassment, Bonded fates. Poor, voiceless, destined to fail Forming a chorus, a cry, a wail. Give me a chance, To learn, To lead! I am girl, I am woman, Respect my needs! Igniting a small flame, as the soft light burns I float to the light, with face upturned.

Latin America and the Caribbean

Illuminated

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