Headline: Understanding the Critical Intersections of FGM/C with other social injustices: Encouraging dialogue on cross-movement collaboration
In April, Sahiyo’s research team gave two presentations exploring data from our advocate and survivor-led Critical Intersections Research Project, the latest report from this project having been released in February 2024. On April 23rd, Sahiyo presented Critical Intersections of FGM/C: The Value of Intersectionality in Cross-Collaboration in conjunction with API-GBV to attendees belonging to various gender-based violence organizations. This presentation fostered lively conversations around intersectionality and cross-collaboration, with one attendee asking about potential collaborations between the anti-FGM/C sphere and those working to end human trafficking. Overall, attendees reflected upon the interconnectedness of their various foci according to intersectionality. The second presentation, on April 24th, was in collaboration with the World Bank Group’s FGM Legal Working Group. Critical Intersections of FGM/C: Law and Policy in Systems of Oppression found attendees drawing on their current work, and how to interconnect to the issue of FGM/C. Concrete ideas emerged as to how to build cross-collaboration, including one participant emphasizing the simple action of referencing FGM/C in proposals to uplift the interconnection of the issue with other reproductive health and/or gender-based violence work. Our interactive presentations support organizations to engage in the following: To build holistic programs that identify intersectional needs of FGM/C survivors To identify components of building successful collaborations across organizations focused on different social oppressions (i.e. systemic racism and FGM/C) To compile tools, resources, case studies, and more that illustrate how cross-collaboration can be carried out within the larger social justice field If you and your organization would like to schedule a presentation or workshop, reach out to Rachel Wine at rachel@sahiyo.org. You can also learn more by visiting Sahiyo.org!
Call to Write
SAHIYO WANTS TO HEAR FROM YOU! At Sahiyo, we’re always looking to publish blogs from fresh perspectives about anything and everything related to FGC and our mission. Maybe you read an article or watched something recently that inspired you or left you simply incensed – or perhaps you learned something that you think could help others. Maybe you’re working on a poem or painting to help you heal or recently stumbled upon a resource or blog that helped you – whatever it is, if it’s related to ending FGC, we want to know about it! If you’re interested please hit reply, or reach out to sheena@sahiyo.com for more information. We also understand staring at a blank page can be daunting, so we’re happy to arrange interviews and write the blog for you if you prefer.
Join our FGM/C 101 Training on May 23rd!
We are pleased to announce our upcoming Female Genital Mutilation or Cutting (FGM/C) 101 Training on May 23rd at 10:30AM-12:00PM Pacific/ 1:30PM-3:00PM Eastern. This session will delve into the hidden realities of FGM/C as a form of gender-based violence, particularly focusing on its impact in Washington State and surrounding areas. Zoom Registration: https://bit.ly/May23FGMCTraining Event Highlights: Understanding FGM/C: Explore the complexities of FGM/C and its secretive nature. Health Impacts: Learn about the severe, lifelong health consequences for impacted women and girls. Data and Research: Discuss the crucial role of data, research, and community engagement in crafting effective support and prevention strategies. Domestic Focus: Take a closer look at the prevalence of FGM/C in the U.S., and more specifically in Washington and nearby metropolitan areas. This training is designed for community members, stakeholders, healthcare providers, and anyone interested in learning more about FGM/C and building an awareness of how to support individuals impacted the practice. If you want to invite Sahiyo to present at your community event or classroom, fill out this interest form. Please contact, aries@sahiyo.org with any questions about our community outreach and education programs.
Reflecting on our webinar: Quiet Activism and Understanding the Psychosocial Impacts of Female Genital Cutting
On April 25th, our Sahiyo community came together for a deeply engaging webinar, joined by participants from across the globe including the United Arab Emirates, Nepal, Switzerland, Myanmar, and India. The event, titled “Quiet Activism and Understanding the Psychosocial Impacts of Female Genital Cutting,” brought together a panel of inspiring speakers: Arefa Cassoobhoy, Farrah Dalal, Doris Mukangu, and Lubaina Plumber. Each shared their personal stories of activism and reflected on how their work has evolved during different stages of their lives. Our speakers opened up about their unique journeys, discussing the “quiet” or private forms of activism that shape their day-to-day lives. They discussed navigating complex psychosocial contexts—ranging from family dynamics to community backlash—and shared valuable insights on the feeling of burnout and fatigue as well as the importance of fostering allyship while prioritizing mental health and wellbeing. We encourage you to watch the full webinar to hear more about their experiences with initiating sensitive conversations within tight-knit communities and leveraging personal stories to foster understanding and empathy. The warmth and engagement from our audience were palpable, with many expressing their eagerness to dive deeper into the topics of quiet activism and the sense of solidarity, resonating deeply with the speakers. One attendee captured the sentiment beautifully, saying, “I am in awe of you young ladies. I applaud you all for the steps you have taken and how you have dealt with your experiences. Keep up your great work and what you are doing. My heart is with you.” This event reminds us of the power of community and the impact of every thoughtful action in our shared cause.
Join Us at Sahiyos Activists Retreat
Sahiyo U.S. will host its eighth annual Activists Retreat virtually via Zoom from July 26th – July 28th, 2024. Sahiyo’s Activist Retreats bring anti-FGC activists together in a safe space to female genital cutting and work together to end the practice. Survivors, activists, and anybody interested in learning more about FGC and ending it are welcome to apply! Please submit the Activists Retreat 2024 Interest Form by Saturday, June 1st, 2024 if you’re interested. More about the retreat: When: Friday, July 26 – 5 to 6:30 pm PST/ 8 to 9:30 pm EST (1.5 hrs) via Zoom Saturday, July 27 – 8 am to 1:00 pm PST/ 11 am to 4:00 pm EST (5 hrs) via Zoom Sunday, July 28 – 8 am to 10:30 am PST/ 11 am to 1:30 pm EST (2.5 hrs) via Zoom Who: The workshop is open to anyone residing in North America. Survivors of FGC, advocates working to end the practice, and the general public interested in learning more about anti-FGC work can attend. Previously relegated to South Asian populations only, this year the workshop will include members from Asian Pacific Islander communities as well as other groups. What: The three-day retreat will include educational sessions, anti-FGC advocacy workshops, presentations, self-care activities for activists, and discussions about how to more effectively create change. The retreat will aim to achieve the following goals: Create a support system among activists working to empower their community to abandon FGC Develop a safe space for individuals to learn more about the issue of FGC Build everybody’s overall capacity to engage in activism, including sharing knowledge, resources, and networks Watch former activist retreat participant Lubaina Plumber share her story: [youtube url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4bsrA1aW-ME”] Following the workshop, Sahiyo will continue to support activists in their anti-FGC efforts as a part of our ongoing education and advocacy work to end FGM/C. If you’re interested in taking part, please fill out Activists Retreat 2024 Interest Form by Saturday, June 1st, 2024. We also invite you to visit our website to read about past retreats and learn more about the program. If you have any questions and would like more information about the retreat, please feel free to reach out to Samman at samman@sahiyo.org.
Sahiyo U.S. Engages Community Stakeholders in Seattle, Washington to Advance Senate Bill 5453 Initiatives
On April 23rd, 2024, Sahiyo U.S., in collaboration with the Washington Department of Health, Mother Africa, and the U.S. End FGM/C Network, convened a significant gathering at Greenriver College, Kent Campus. The event, titled “Prevention & Response: How to Protect Washington’s Children & Support Survivors & Communities Impacted by Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting,” marked a pivotal day in our ongoing efforts to combat FGM/C in Washington State, following the enactment of Senate Bill 5453 in April of 2023. This legislation, which was a critical step in addressing FGM/C, was made possible through the tireless efforts of advocates from the Washington Coalition, as well as legislative champions such as Senator Karen Keiser. Their participation in the event brought invaluable insights and highlighted the collaborative spirit that supported the law’s passage. The day was filled with meaningful discussions, beginning with an overview of FGM/C and its impact in Washington, followed by a deep dive into the legislative framework provided by the WA DOH, setting the stage for community stakeholders, from healthcare, government, nonprofit sectors, and community-based organizations to share their insights for the potential direction of the project. Most importantly, the voices of survivors and community members impacted by FGM/C were at the forefront of this discussion, guiding our conversations and strategies. Read the KUOW article, “Coalition Against FGM Supports Victims in Washington State,” to learn more! We are grateful to all who participated and contributed their knowledge and experiences to this event. If you have any questions and want to learn more about and how to get involved with this project, please email info@wafgmc.org.