The College of the Canyons Humanities Division will present three screenings of the critically acclaimed film “Girl Rising,” which showcases how education transformed the lives of nine extraordinary girls from around the world.

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“We often take for granted the opportunities that we have, and never stop to realize how much others struggle to achieve what we believe to be a basic right,” said COC Chancellor Dianne Van Hook, who is helping to fund the screening through a grant from the College of the Canyons Foundation.

Directed by Academy Award-nominated documentary filmmaker Richard Robbins, “Girl Rising” tells the story of nine girls from different countries. Their stories are told by celebrated writers and narrated by renowned actresses, including Cate Blanchett, Anne Hathaway and Salma Hayek.

While each girl has a unique story, they face obstacles that are universal to millions of girls around the world who are denied access to education. 

“Despite the odds against them, they still manage to overcome and change their lives,” said Van Hook.

The girls spotlighted in “Girl Rising” face a series of heartbreaking injustices ranging from forced servitude, homelessness, arranged marriage and child slavery.

They have chosen to share their uplifting personal journeys in hopes that their courage will help inspire others, and spark a worldwide educational revolution.

“Their resilience inspires gratitude and a recommitment to make the most of what we have. That’s why this film is so important, and why we are so proud to screen it at College of the Canyons for the benefit of the community,” said Van Hook.

The COC Humanities Division will host screenings of the film at 1 p.m., 3:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. Saturday, June 29, in Hasley Hall, Room 101, at the college’s Valencia campus.

Panel discussions will be held, and refreshments will be made available, following the screenings at 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.

To reserve seats for a screening of “Girl Rising” at College of the Canyons, attendees are encouraged to register in advance as seating is limited.

Reserve a seat at www.girlrisingcoc.eventbrite.com.

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