Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post about American Girl Melody Ellison, but all opinions are my own.

How old were you when you realized that your voice could make a difference? When did you discover that just by speaking up, you could cause change to happen? I was in middle school when I wrote a letter to the editor of our newspaper about the lack of coverage of black history topics in my school’s social studies textbook. Once it was published, the principal called me into the office to discuss the letter, and to tell me how proud he was of me for saying something. That was the start of a long line of me speaking up.

As the mother of a little girl, it’s my job to teach her to lift her voice. I have to let her know that what she thinks matters, and that there is power in her voice. I model it, I remind her every day that she’s strong, and I look to empower her in ways that resonate with her. I was really excited to introduce Ayva to Melody Ellison™, the newest character to join the popular BeForever™ line from American Girl^®. I knew that this sweet and courageous 9-year-old growing up during the civil rights movement in the 1960s would be the perfect opportunity to take our conversations about speaking up to the next level.

Melody Ellison’s stories share about her life in Detroit, Michigan, as a young singer who decides to use her voice to speak up for equality. The stories are written by award-winning author Denise Lewis Patrick, and show girls that ordinary people can do extraordinary things when they come together to make a difference.

I know that it can be tricky to bring up difficult conversations with your little girl. American Girl is giving us the tools to start these conversations and empower her at the same time with Melody Ellison and her brave civil rights story.

Lift Your Voice with Melody Ellison

Your American Girl fan can celebrate the fairness and equality theme of Melody’s stories by participating in the Lift Your Voice with Melody campaign. Fans can watch the Lift Your Voice with Melody video starting on August 20, and then share their own inspiring videos and photos, using #LiftYourVoice.

Melody Ellison Retail Events

At American Girl retail stores across the country, from August 26-28, girls will have an opportunity to listen to the soundtrack of Melody’s life—Motown—and will be immersed in her world with special block party food and décor, free crafts and receive a free Melody Ellison-inspired doll tee while supplies last. Check your specific store location for exact details and event timing.

Melody Ellison Learning Materials

For parents and teachers, free downloadable Melody Learning and Reader Discussion Guides are available at americangirl.com, which explore themes and issues from the 1960s.