Former Miss Liberia Wokie Dolo has issued a compelling call for the immediate abolition of harmful traditional practices that continue to undermine the rights, dignity, and well-being of women and girls across Liberia. Her bold statement, posted on social media on November 13, 2025, has since gained widespread traction across civic, advocacy, and women’s rights platforms, sparking renewed national dialogue on the urgent need for legal and social reform.
In her message, Ms. Dolo asserted, “Every harmful practice that violates the rights and dignity of women and girls is a setback to our nation’s progress.” Her statement not only underscores the devastating impact of these practices but also challenges national leaders to move beyond awareness campaigns and take decisive legislative action that ensures protection and justice for Liberia’s most vulnerable.
Among the practices highlighted are female genital mutilation (FGM), early and forced marriage, and various forms of gender-based violence. According to Dolo, these traditions often justified under the guise of cultural preservation continue to impede national development by inflicting lasting physical, psychological, and emotional harm on women and girls. She stresses that “tradition must never be a shield for injustice.” “Ending harmful practices is not just a moral duty,” she wrote. “It is a legislative imperative. Effective laws protect lives and promote equality.”
Her message comes at a time when civil society organizations and international partners are calling for stronger enforcement mechanisms to eliminate practices that disproportionately affect women and girls. Ms. Dolo acknowledges the cultural sensitivity surrounding the issue but firmly rejects the idea that cultural identity should come at the expense of human dignity. She emphasizes that Liberia can honor its heritage while adopting progressive measures that safeguard its citizens. “We can love our traditions and still say no to practices that cause harm,” she affirmed, adding that the protection of children must be a national priority.
Her post is particularly striking in its condemnation of FGM performed on minors sometimes on girls as young as seven. “No child should be forced to endure such pain,” she declared. “It’s time to protect not punish our girls.” Wokie Dolo’s advocacy echoes broader regional and global efforts to eradicate harmful traditional practices and promote gender equality.
As Liberia continues to strengthen its democratic institutions, legal frameworks, and social protection systems, her voice adds powerful momentum to ongoing campaigns demanding justice, human rights, and inclusive development. Her call serves as a reminder that safeguarding the future of girls and women is not only a national responsibility but also a pathway to a more equitable, progressive, and prosperous Liberia.
Author: Laurina M. Hills
