GCC-AC is a Girl's Political and Leadership Group. The research shows that girls have interest in politics and have had an array of political and civic engagement experiences both in and out of school. However, their interest and experience doesn’t add up to future political career intent. Girls are well aware of the stereotypes that exist for females and political careers, especially as perpetuat
ed by the media, and they believe that women are quite capable of pursuing political careers. Girls call for more guidance, opportunities, and general support to further their political interests and capabilities. Studies found that an impressive 67 percent of girls are interested in politics. More than a third (37%) of girls are interested in becoming a politician. One in ten girls (9%) are very interested, and more than a quarter of girls (28%) are somewhat interested in becoming a politician. The most common motivations behind becoming a politician are the desire to make a difference in the world (78%) and the desire to help people (76%). Girls are calling for more support from society, the media, and the adults in their lives, if they are to start seriously considering and pursuing politics in the coming years.
• Girls need more teacher support, as just 38 percent of girls say their teachers have encouraged them to pursue politics.
• Sixty-five percent of girls feel more mentoring for girls and young women from current politicians would encourage more girls to pursue a career in politics.
• Fifty-seven percent of girls feel more after-school programs for girls to gain experience in community work and/or politics would encourage more girls to pursue a career in politics.
• Sixty-five percent of girls feel more positive stories about female politicians in the media would encourage more girls to pursue a career in politics.
