 STG Goal 5 – Gender Equality and Empowering Women Max is married to Anna. They have three children, Laura, Joe, and Mike. Joe and Mike attend a community school near their home while Laura stays behind to help her mother with the chores. Max thinks educating Laura is a waste of his resources. After all, Laura will soon be 15 years and marry his friend, John. Although Laura dreams of becoming a lawyer, Max thinks she only belongs in the kitchen. Like Laura, millions of girls around the world are being denied education and equal opportunities as boys. The STG Goal 5 aims to end all forms of discrimination against women and girls. Women and girls must have equal rights and opportunities and be able to live free of violence and discrimination. Throughout history, women have never been treated equally as men. Women may be better off today but still far from being equal with men. Fewer girls are enrolled in schools, fewer women are in decision-making positions or in politics, fewer women are landowners, and women continue to earn less than men. It is important to address gender inequality as women hold half of the world's potential. It is integral for the achievement of all the other STGs like, no poverty, quality education, zero hunger, clean water and sanitation, good health and well-being, reduced inequalities, decent work and economic growth among others. To achieve the STG 5, states must eliminate practices like child marriages so that girls, like Laura, can enjoy quality education and achieve their dreams. Legislation are not enough. Individuals like you can also help create gender-neutral society for all. Start now.