New Wall Street Statue 'Fearless Girl' Takes A Stand For Women In Leadership

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- A new symbol on Wall Street comes with a powerful message.

A bronze statue called "The Fearless Girl" now faces down the iconic charging bull in Bowling Green.

A plaque at her feet reads, "Know the power of women in leadership. SHE makes a difference.''

State Street Global Advisors unveiled the statue Tuesday as part of International Women's Day.

The asset management company is calling on thousands of U.S. corporations to take steps to increase the number of women on their corporate boards.

"We believe good corporate governance is a function of strong, effective and independent board leadership," said Ron O'Hanley, president and chief executive officer of SSGA. "A key contributor to effective independent board leadership is diversity of thought, which requires directors with different skills, backgrounds and expertise. Today, we are calling on companies to take concrete steps to increase gender diversity on their boards and have issued clear guidance to help them begin to take action."

The statue, which the company said represents the future, is expected to stay up for a month.

"Standing proudly for the promise and power of women in leadership, she is right where she belongs," the company said in a press release.

Many visitors have been posing next to the defiant girl with their hands on their hips and their chins held high.

"I read about it and I wanted to come and see it," said visitor Terry Rosenberg. "I think it's great, it's a great symbol, it's a great message and I like it."

On Wednesday, someone had placed a red hat and scarf on the statue in solidarity with "A Day Without a Woman."

The work is by artist Kristen Visbal.