In honor of International Women's Day on March 8,
Angelina Jolie will be featured on the cover of Elle Magazine. (Although her cover photo probably won't be as amusing as that
picture from the Golden Globes, where she's totally ignoring Jennifer Aniston.)
The 42-year-old actress is an appropriate choice for the special issue, as she's widely recognized for her work as a humanitarian. While filming Tomb Raider in war-torn Cambodia in 2001, she became inspired to work with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Since then, she's met with refugees and internally displaced persons in over 30 countries. In 2012, she launched the Preventing Sexual Violence in Conflict Initiative, which aims to support survivors and ensure more perpetrators of sexual violence are put to justice. She's also pushed for legislation to aid child immigrants.
For this issue of Elle, she sat down with former Secretary of State John Kerry. They discussed her campaign against rape and sexual violence in war zones. In many places, violence against women is still treated as a lesser crime. There's a long way to go, but her efforts have already made some significant progress.
"Over 150 countries have signed a commitment to end impunity for war-zone rape," says the Oscar-winning actress. There are new teams in place to gather evidence and support prosecutions. I was in Kenya last summer as UN peacekeeping troops received new training, since peacekeepers have been part of the problem. We’re working with NATO on training, protection, and getting more women in the military."
As the campaign continues, she hopes to achieve more positive change for women on a global level. "I think of how hard women fought to get us to where we are today," said Angelina. "Everything counts, from the way you hold yourself in daily life and educate yourself on your own rights, to solidarity with other women around the world."
And she's making sure to pass this education down to her kids. After two years of marriage, Angelina separated from
Brad Pitt in 2016. Together, they have six children, including three daughters: Zahara (12), Shilow (11), and Viviene (9). The newly single mom shared the awesome advice she gives to her girls:
"I tell my daughters, "What sets you apart is what you are willing to do for others. Anyone can put on a dress and makeup. It’s your mind that will define you.' Find out who you are, what you think, and what you stand for. And fight for others to have those same freedoms. A life of service is worth living."
Pretty great advice, right? As the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements rock the world, some people have skeptical about moral values in Hollywood. But it sounds like Angelina Jolie's raising her children right, and is a pretty great role model. (Although she still has trouble looking at
Jennifer Aniston.)
In related news,
Angelina Jolie opens up on the heartbreaking events that ended her marriage with Brad Pitt...
