[HED]: Remake of “Wannabe” Becomes the Ultimate Girl Power Anthem [DEK]: The Spice Girls’ “Wannbe” just got a feminist makeover. The beloved classic has been revamped to convey an even stronger message that calls attention to women’s issues. [WRITER]: Leah DeGraw [INTERN]: Leah DeGraw
Last September, world officials signed the The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) act as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, to build on the success of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The seventeen SDGs focus on issues ranging from ending poverty to good health and well being, among others. But one of the most promising and exciting for us is number 5, “gender equality.” In honor of the Spice Girl’s 20th anniversary of their hit Wannabe, the UN’s Global Goal has released a music video remake. The song’s original message, aimed at potential lovers, has now shifted into the ultimate girl power anthem. The catchy hit that was once sung in showers and mirrors sans hair brushes by teen girls is back but making an even bigger and more impressive statement — for equality. The music video features international stars such as the British girl group M.O, Canadian YouTube star Taylor Hatala, singer Seyi Shay and actress Jacqueline Fernandez lip-syncing and dancing to the 1996 hit song. In the background, women’s issues are addressed, including violence against girls, child marriage, quality education and equal pay. The release of #WhatIReallyReallyWant campaign reiterates the importance of the women’s agenda and encourages women to speak up. And by taking the message to social , using the hashtag and sharing what you “really really want” for women and girls, will allow our causes to be heard at UN Sustainable Development Summit in September. Six days since it’s announcement, the hashtag is already trending pictures of women, girls, and men holding signs with their personal message of what they want to see improved for women. Several celebrities have endorsed the remake, including Spice Girl Victoria Beckham herself, saying that she thinks it’s a “wonderful idea” and loves the fact that 20 years later the Spice Girls girl power is still being used. #WhatIReallyReallyWant reinvents the hit song’s original message into a feminist force to be reckoned with. Guess what, we’re posting and we hope you will too. To get involved in the conversation, simply share a photo of yourself with a sign of what you want really really want changed for women and girls and join the movement!