The Connecticut Coalition to End FGM/C Interview Series: Caitlin LeMay
By: Juliet Shires Policy interns at Sahiyo have been interviewing members of the Connecticut (CT) Coalition to End FGM/C to learn more about them and their important work. Recently, Sahiyo’s policy intern, Juliet Shires, talked to the Executive Director of the U.S End FGM/C Network and CT Coalition member, Caitlin LeMay, about her personal experiences as an advocate as well as the Network’s role in supporting the CT Coalition’s efforts. Misconceptions Around FGM/C Caitlin LeMay initially echoed the same belief that is found amongst many Americans, particularly those who identify as white, that FGC is only a practice that takes place in African, Asian countries, or basically anywhere but here. “I’m surprised I wasn’t more familiar with it earlier…I think that it really speaks to what it’s like being raised in the US and the misconceptions around how FGM/C is not seen as an issue here. I was susceptible to those same misconceptions and miseducation about FGM/C and its impact in the United States. I think because of that…it fuels me even more to spread awareness and spread education about FGM/C [in the US]…I’ve really found a home here and a lot of passion for this work.”. Caitlin continued to expand on these common misconceptions surrounding FGM/C, making it clear that it is very much a practice that affects the U.S. In fact, American doctors used to perform FGM/C to treat perceived ailments such as “lesbianism”, masturbation, and hysteria. She points out that the first step to ending this practice is recognizing that these problems exist within the U.S. “The United States has a long history, and present…of practicing FGM/C in our medical institutions as a regular practice. And we are yet to reconcile with that… [It was an] institutionalized practice to control women and their bodies and their behavior.” These racial stereotypes only serve to perpetuate problems in the U.S. “The root of the US not reconciling with [FGM/C]… is completely rooted in racism and anti-blackness. Not being able to see what is happening here as FGM/C is all rooted in racism, xenophobia, and anti-Blackness. We need to call it what it is… Education is our best tool [to combat this], it’s where we’ve made the best progress.” The Network’s Role in the Connecticut Coalition to End Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting In our interview, Caitlin also explained how the Network helps the CT Coalition, using their experiences working with other state-based coalitions to guide fellow organizations and volunteers in the CT Coalition. They also make sure to tailor their advice according to the state, keeping in mind that their communities have the most knowledge of what their state needs and how to achieve their goals. “They know who would be the best representatives or senators to reach out to sponsor the bill, to champion them … Engaging the local communities to take the lead on that and really engaging them because they know best.” Leading through locals goes hand and hand with allowing survivors to take the lead in determining what their needs are and what resources they need to address them. In other words, to determine what would be best “not just for Connecticut but for survivors in Connecticut.” It is a collaborative effort that involves debating and discussing with one another to create a solution that works for all survivors with varying backgrounds and experiences. Caitlin’s and the Network’s ultimate goal is to ensure that state coalitions are safe spaces, where survivors can feel heard and have the power to make change in their communities. “There’s a place for everybody. No matter what your comfort level or what your capacity is, there’s a place and there’s a way to get involved.” Caitlin and the Network assisted in the passage of Bill SSD 5453 in Washington, a piece of legislation aimed at ending the practice of FGM/C in the state. She highlights it as a prime example “of what can happen when there are these state coalitions that are survivor and community-led.” The bill achieved the coalition’s goal of fostering collaboration between state departments and community members who best address survivors’ needs. Now that Washington state has started implementing the bill, Caitlin hopes that Washington can become an example for other states passing new legislation around FGM/C: “We haven’t seen that before, so I think it’s such a great example and could really provide an example for other states. We really hope that other states see this and learn from it.” Throughout our conversation, Caitlin highlighted the importance of the progress in Washington state, and how it relates to the work that still needs to be done in Connecticut, and across the country. She also validates how disappointing and frustrating it can be when states like Connecticut don’t prioritize legislation around FGM/C but knows it’s also important to recognize that “we didn’t go backward, we just didn’t go forward.” Furthermore, it’s important to take a step back and look at the larger, global movement toward ending FGM/C and that’s something that can help encourage and provide us with hope. Still, she encourages anyone passionate about the issue of FGM/C to get involved in advocacy work as there’s work to be done all across the US – even in states that already have a law in place. “It’s all connected. Progress that is made in CT helps the movement in The Gambia. Progress made in The Gambia helps movements in Europe or Asia… Any glimmer of progress that we can find can help get us to tomorrow, and get to the next day, and keep us moving forward to that ultimate end goal of ending FGM/C globally.” We would like to thank Caitlin LeMay for taking the time to sit down with our policy intern and for her continued work with the CT Coalition and the U.S. End FGM/C Network. About The U.S. End FGM/C Network As a member of the Connecticut Coalition, the U.S. Network helps support the coalition’s efforts using the resources it possesses as a national organization.
Voices from Washington and Beyond: an In-Person Voices to End FGM/C Screening in Kent, WA
On June 13th, we had the privilege of hosting an in-person screening of the Voices to End FGM/C digital storytelling project in Kent, Washington, alongside project partners the US End FGM/C Network, Mother Africa, and the Washington Department of Health. This event provided a platform for courageous Washington-based individuals to share their personal narratives, shedding light on the practice of FGM/C and its profound impact on their lives. The screening featured powerful videos from participants who bravely addressed the physical, emotional, and social consequences of FGM/C. These stories highlighted the diverse and enduring impacts of the practice, reflecting a wide range of cultural and community contexts. Some storytellers shared their experiences of advocacy efforts to end FGM/C, while others explored how healthcare providers can best support survivors or discussed the effects of FGM/C on their family relationships. The event also emphasized the significance of Washington State’s recent legislative progress, particularly the passage of State Senate Bill 5453 in April 2023, aimed at addressing FGM/C within the state. This milestone underscores the importance of multi-sectorial, holistic approaches involving healthcare, government, nonprofit, and community-based organizations, alongside community members directly impacted by FGM/C. A special feature of the event was the panel discussion, where two of the storytellers, Muna and Severina, answered questions about their experiences and insights. The discussion covered topics such as the healing process, the need for support and resources, effective strategies for spreading awareness, challenges faced by survivors in seeking medical care, and ways to engage communities, including men and boys, in the conversation to end FGM/C. The screening in Kent fostered a sense of community and solidarity, highlighting the importance of creating safe spaces for open dialogue and mutual support. Many participants expressed gratitude for having a survivor-centered space where individuals could share and reflect on their experiences. We are deeply grateful to all the storytellers for their courage and the attendees for actively participating in learning more about FGM/C. Related: Sahiyo U.S. Engages Community Stakeholders in Seattle, Washington to Advance Senate Bill 5453 Initiatives Check out and bookmark Sahiyo’s Events Calendar
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.
Join the FGM/C Prevention and Response in Washington State Advisory Committee
Sahiyo U.S. is pleased to announce that in collaboration with Mother Africa, the U.S. End FGM/C Network, and the Washington State Department of Health, we are seeking dedicated individuals to serve on an Advisory Committee for a Washington state-supported initiative aimed at preventing and responding to female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C). This initiative,part of the implementation of Washington state law – SSB 5453, Section 6, aims to enhance statewide efforts to support FGM/C survivors and prevent future cases through strategic planning, community engagement, and education. Apply here! Advisory Committee members will be given a unique opportunity to contribute to a significant public health and human rights effort. Members will play a critical role in shaping effective responses to FGM/C throughout the state. Advisory Committee Members will also participate in specialized subwork committees focused on areas such as community prevention and education, healthcare provider training, government agency response coordination, and/or other topics as agreed upon by the initial Advisory Committee. Advisory Committee Role Description Project Time Frame: April 2024 to June 2025 Location: Washington State (Hybrid – Remote and In-Person Meetings as Required) Time Commitment: 3-5 hours a month Honorarium: $75 per hour The initiative seeks to include perspectives from a wide range of professional backgrounds, personal experiences, and viewpoints, fostering inclusive and responsive strategies. We are interested in engaging those directly impacted by FGM/C, including survivors and individuals from practicing communities and other allies in this work, including related social justice fields such as reproductive health, child protection professionals, LGBTQI+ agencies. We also acknowledge the need for and vital role that faith leaders, men, and other community members play in the work to end FGM/C and invite all these various communities to apply to be a part of the Advisory Committee.. To ensure the effectiveness and diversity of the advisory committee dedicated to the prevention of and response to FGM/C in Washington state, applicants should: Understand the experience of survivors and/or willing to learn and engage with learning more on the topic Be committed to raising awareness about the harmsof FGM/C Value community and collaboration Respect the differences between various cultures If you have questions contact info@wafgmc.org. Apply here! *The Advisory Committee and related project in Washington State is funded by the Washington State Department of Health* If you missed our in-person meeting on April 23rd, join us on Wednesday, May 8th 12:30 to 1:30 pm PST / 3:30 to 4:30 pm EST for a virtual meeting to learn more about how Washington State plans to address the issue of female genital mutilation/cutting following the passage of State Senate Bill 5453- An Act Relative to Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) in April 2023. Registration link: https://bit.ly/WAFGMCMay8 Or scan the QR code (below) Additionally, to stay engaged and continue learning about FGM/C, join Sahiyo U.S. and the US End FGM/C Network for our upcoming training session on FGM/C on May 23, 2024, 10:30 AM-12:00 PM Pacific Register at: https://bit.ly/May23FGMCTraining Or scan the QR code (below) For more information about the project or any additional questions, please contact info@wafgmc.org.
Washington State becomes 41st state to pass law against FGM/C
Sahiyo, as part of the Washington Coalition to End FGM/C, is ecstatic to announce that on April 20th, 2023, Washington state Governor Jay Inslee signed Senate Bill 5453 concerning female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) into law. This law creates a private right of action for survivors of FGM/C; prohibits providers from performing FGM/C on a minor; establishes education and outreach initiatives to prevent FGM/C; and provides care for victims and families of FGM/C. Many thanks and congratulations to all who were involved in this legislative process! Below are reactions to the bill’s passage by members of Washington Coalition to End FGM/C. This survivor- and community-led coalition was instrumental in advocating for and gathering support to make this law a reality. “SB 5354 passing is a victory and an emotional moment on so many levels. The power of the collective work and collaboration of the coalition members and affected communities is a living example of the power of community engagement/involvement. The representation and story shared is so real and compelling. The coalition work is not yet over, the coalition work model should be replicated to propose similar bills in the remaining nine states. More importantly, the bulk of the work starts after SB 5354 was signed by the Governor. The goal is to make sure appropriate pathways, educational programs, and materials developed to meet these communities’ needs are culturally sensitive and will maintain families well beings, as well as promote healing; and the community should have access (parents, children, and professionals). I am so proud to be a part of this great coalition.” ~Dr. Muna Osman “Passing this bill is long overdue, and I feel proud to see Washington state join the 40 other states that have acted to end this practice. The collaborative work of our coalition that led to the passing of SB 5453 in Washington can serve as a model for the 9 other states that have yet to act against female genital cutting. This law presents an opportunity for a much-needed conversation and education on FGC in our communities and is a critical step towards advancing gender equity and human rights while safeguarding future generations of girls and women from this harmful practice.” ~Absa Samba “It’s absolutely amazing to see that Washington has become the 41st state to pass a law to protect children from female genital mutilation/cutting. Over the past 10 years, I’ve been fortunate to be part of survivor-led coalitions in Massachusetts and Connecticut that have sought to create change when it comes to ending this harmful practice. I am amazed by just how quickly we were able to form a survivor-led coalition in Washington, and I am forever grateful that our bill sponsor, Senator Keiser understood the importance of ensuring that the language of this bill was based on feedback from FGC-impacted communities themselves.” ~Mariya Taher, Executive Director, Sahiyo U.S. “The only way the United States can effectively advance gender equality is if we lead by example. And that starts, here at home. Five years ago, I started a petition to push Washington state to ban FGM, mobilizing over 170,000 supporters along the way. I’m grateful for Absa Samba, a bright light and young leader who convened survivors from diverse backgrounds, to craft legislation that balances prosecution and prevention in a way that can serve as a model for not just Washington state, but the world. The passing of this bill illustrates how survivor-fueled advocacy can lead to sustainable social change.” ~Maryum Saifee “I joined Absa Samba as she created a coalition of diverse Washington State women who live in communities affected by FGM, were bravely willing to share their personal experience with FGM, and share a commitment to curbing this practice through the passage of SB 5453. As a professor of anthropology with decades of experience studying strategies to end FGM, I offered testimony on the proven importance of legislation as a tool for change, particularly when it funds outreach and education. When families and community members deliberate upon whether a girls should undergo FGM, knowledge of the law strengthens the power of persuasion of those who no longer endorse the practice. As such, the law will strengthen efforts to prevent girls in Washington State from being subjected to the practice of FGM.” ~Bettina Shell-Duncan “The U.S. End FGM/C Network is thrilled to see the passing of SB5453, making Washington State the 41st state in the U.S. to take a stand against FGM/C. This new law sets a precedent for the remaining 9 states to pass comprehensive, holistic laws to protect women and children across this country. We also know that this is only the first step and we look forward to working with the WA Department of Health, the WA Coalition to End FGM/C, impacted communities, and other stakeholders to ensure that this law is implemented to its fullest potential.” ~Caitlin LeMay, Executive Director, The U.S. End FGM/C Network “Children’s Alliance is honored to have had the opportunity to work alongside an incredible team of FGM/C survivors and advocates to pass this critically important legislation. Washington state was a laggard in providing protections against this practice; our state’s children and youth will greatly benefit from the work of this coalition.” ~Dr. Stephan Blanford, Executive Director, Children’s Alliance “It saddens me that it is 2023, and young girls are still at risk of facing FGM/C or have already experienced such a traumatic incident. It is heartbreaking and needs to come to an end. This bill is one step closer to making young girls feel safe in Washington. This bill is hope, hope that young girls in Washington will not experience such a violent act. Now, it’s time to work on an effective implementation that will change their lives.” ~Mother Africa “We applaud Washington lawmakers for taking this critical step in the fight to eradicate the practice of FGM in the United States, and call on the remaining nine states to take similar action. FGM is
Washington State makes progress to end FGM/C
Washington State is one of the remaining ten U.S. states without any law that addresses and prohibits female genial mutilation/cutting (FGM/C). FGM/C is a human rights violation and form of child abuse and gender-based violence that involves removal of the female genitalia for non-medical purposes. This gap in state protection has left children in Washington vulnerable to this harmful practice. In fact, an estimated 25,000 women and girls in Washington are living with or at risk of undergoing FGM/C. The Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metro area is considered the 5th highest metro area in the U.S. in terms of the size of the FGM/C-affected community. In 2019, a change.org petition that gained 170,000+ signatures was started to address this lack of protection for children. “Washington state is #18 for gender equality by US News and World Report. Gender Equality should be a priority in Washington state. Social, political, and economic equality and equity is limited when we don’t have the full participation of all of our women and girls. Harmful customs or social norms that contribute to GBV (gender-based violence) including FGM/C in addition to costing lifelong pain and suffering can hold women, girls, and others who have undergone FGM/C back from full participation.” ~ Absa Samba The Washington Coalition to End FGM/C was created to educate people in the state about the need for policy solutions to address FGM/C. The coalition is made up of survivors, community organizations, legislators, advocates, and others. On March 9th the Washington Coalition to End FGM/C held a webinar in partnership with Sahiyo, The U.S. End FGM/C Network, Children’s Alliance, and Mother Africa to help shed light on how FGM/C impacts those living in Washington state, and to discuss policy level solutions, community-based programs, and education initiatives needed to protect women, girls, and others from undergoing this harmful practice. Speakers included: Absa Samba, a student, activist, and survivor of FGM/C who helped found the Coalition and made contact with Washington Senators to sponsor a bill against FGM/C, Bettina Shell Duncan, a Professor of Anthropology at the University of Washington in Seattle who has done extensive research on FGM/C, Stephan Blanford, the Executive Director of Children’s Alliance, Muna Osman, Doctorate Prepared Nurse Practitioner, founder of holistic family care clinic, a co-founder of mama amaan research team, and survivor, Senator Karen Keiser (D-WA 33), sponsor of SB 5453, a bill that will make FGM/C illegal in Washington State. Speakers helped to shed light on the issue of FGM/C by discussing what it was, who it impacts, and most importantly, that it does affect residents of Washington. The vital need for policy to end FGM/C amongst future generations of children was also discussed. “The pressure to undergo FGM can be intense for girls and their families…the solution is to coordinate change in families and communities so that people are not acting in isolation. If everybody can agree to abandon the practice, the negative sanctions can be lifted…When other members of the community are given the power of law to strengthen their position, the law becomes a powerful tool for enhancing their power to persuade others that this is a practice that’s no longer relevant in this context and in this time.” ~ Bettina Shell Duncan, panelist The coalition has supported policy work by working on the passage of Washington Senate Bill 5453. This bill, informed by the Washington Coalition to End FGM/C, has been championed by state Senator Karen Keiser and, if passed, will prohibit FGM/C on minors, creates a civil cause of action for survivors of FGM/C, and establishes an education program to prevent FGM/C in Washington. “This education component of this bill is huge for our [Somali] community. I think this bill coming from us, for us, by us, to help the community, I think it is a beautiful thing. I am confident that the community will accept it.” ~ Muna Osman, panelist During the event, audience members were also called to action to support the bill by signing onto an action alert. As of March 29, Senate Bill 5453 has passed the Washington state Senate unanimously and is making its way through the House of Representatives. Similar legislation was introduced in the Washington legislature in 2019 but it did not pass; a key difference between the two campaigns is that this year in 2023, the bill is backed by a strong coalition of directly-impacted survivors, advocates, community members, health practitioners, human rights activists, policymakers, faith based groups, and other allies. Whereas in 2019, there was a lack of inclusion of FGC impacted communities who lived in Washington in the crafting of the legislation. The unanimous support from legislators this year is a strong indication that Washington state will become the 41st state to pass a law to prohibit and prevent FGM/C.
Washington Senate Bill 5453 moves to House Appropriations Committee
In Washington state, Senate Billl 5453 concerning female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) recently passed the House Committee unanimously, and is now scheduled for a public hearing with the House Appropriations Committee on Friday, March 31st at 1:30 PM PST. The bill, which was introduced on January 18th, aims to: create a private right of action for survivors of FGM/C; prohibit providers from performing FGM/C on a minor; establish education and outreach initiatives to prevent FGM/C; provide care for victims and families of FGM/C. You can show your support for this bill in one of the ways below: Testify In-Person (oral testimony limited to only 1-2 minutes max) Testify Remotely (oral testimony limited to only 1-2 minutes max) Submit Written Testimony Vote Pro Learn more about Washington SB 5453 from the Washington Coalition.
Washington Coalition hosts educational webinar on female genital cutting
On March 9th, the Washington Coalition to End FGM/C, in partnership with Sahiyo, The U.S. End FGM/C Network, Children’s Alliance, and Mother Africa, held a webinar called Protecting Children in Washington State from Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting with the goal of drawing attention to this human rights violation and how it impacts children in the State. The webinar was also held to highlight the need for Senate Bill 5453, which would make female genital cutting (FGC) illegal in the state, provide civil remedies for survivors, and call on education programs on FGC to be created. A 2016 study by the Population Reference Bureau estimated that 25,000 girls and women in Washington State are living with or at risk of undergoing FGC. The study also ranked the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metro area as the 5th highest metro area in terms of size of the FGC-affected community in the U.S. The webinar hosted a panel discussion in which speakers Absa Samba and Muna Osman shared their personal experiences with FGC as survivors and activists working to end the practice. Researcher Bettina Shell-Duncan discussed how research supports the need for legislation to change social norms around communities believing that FGC had to continue for the good of the child. Finally, Stephan Blanford, Executive Director of the Children’s Alliance highlighted how the state has seen other sharmful ocial norms regarding children change through policy in the state and how he is confident the same could be said if a law on FGC were created. Watch the recording of the webinar here: [youtube url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pZEefGBUTzQ”]
Washington SB 5453 moves to the House
SB5453 in Washington State is onto a hearing in the State’s House for Monday, March 13th after passing the Senate unanimously. To express your support of SB5453: You can vote PRO by clicking this link. This is the quickest and easiest way to express your support of this bill! For WA based members, click here to testify In-person If you would like to testify virtually, please schedule your testimony here Lastly, you can submit written testimony Statement from the Washington Coalition: We are a newly formed Coalition working to end the practice of female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) in the State of Washington. We comprise a broad group of survivors, stakeholders and advocates. Forty US States have laws banning the practice of FGM/C. Washington has yet to address this important human rights issue in any manner. This proposed legislation SB 5453 under review today is a good first step towards ending the practice and supporting survivors in Washington State. Review the Washington Coalition’s factsheet to learn more about this bill and its significance.
A conversation with Washington activist Absa Samba: SB 5453 a product of collaboration and persistence
By Rachel Wine As the Washington Senate Bill 5453 concerning female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) moves forward in the legislature, I had the honor of speaking with Absa Samba, who has been instrumental in advocating for legislation on FGM/C in Washington state. Absa’s advocacy journey began over a decade ago, when Absa was in middle school. She attended a training, which explored gender issues, and it immediately became clear that things like gender expectations, gender roles, and harmful cultural practices were connected. “I think the training… became a validation for what I’ve always felt, this inequality that existed in my society, and… I had language for what was going on, and that’s when I started getting involved in advocacy and activism for the rights of women. A big part of that became advocating against harmful cultural practices, like child marriages and female genital cutting.” Washington, where she currently lives, is one of ten remaining states without a law against FGM/C, though it is one of the highest-risk states; a 2016 study found that the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metro area was the 5th highest metro area in the U.S. in terms of the size of the FGM/C-affected community. Absa’s background as an activist, and personal connection to this issue and other harmful cultural practices (she is a survivor of FGM/C), inspired her to choose FGM/C as her focus for a policy analysis class assignment. “I was just doing an assignment, and I found out through my research that there were two bills that were presented that never made it out of Committee. And I think when I noted that in my paper, my professor asked me to find out why those bills failed, and that’s when I reached out to one of the Senator’s office who had sponsored the bill in the Senate.” What began as a class assignment evolved into an opportunity for Absa to chat Senator Karen Keiser on FGM/C in May of 2022. “The Senator herself met with me and wanted to chat about the bill, the issue. And out of that conversation, I was like, okay, maybe a presentation on what FGM is would be helpful for this person, they seem really interested in it. So I opted to do a presentation, and the Senator was gracious enough to take the offer and invited other chairs of different Committees in the Senate to come to that, and it was at that point that I realized I was taking on more than I could afford to at the time. So I was connected with Mariya [Taher] and I reached out to Bettina [Shell-Duncan] and other folks and I said, “Hey, this is an opportunity to talk to these people about FGM in Washington, would you be interested in joining?” And they were kind enough to come on and help me with that presentation, and I think it was that moment that we realized, actually, this is really an opportunity to do something about this issue in Washington State.” By pulling together support from the FGM/C sphere, Absa unknowingly planted the seed for the group that would become a key stakeholder in SB 5453’s creation. Senator Keiser recognized the opportunity to do something from this initial experience; “her desire to introduce a bill on FGM/C solidified this work.” Absa began to facilitate the group working with Senator Kaiser, who was determined to loop in advocates and survivors in creating the bill. Absa would organize meetings and generate statements for the group, which eventually became the Washington Coalition Against FGM/C. The Coalition and various other stakeholders worked closely to co-author the bill, and Absa is rightfully proud of that. “We’ve worked with the Senator closely to create the bill, I think what was remarkable was how much time Senator Keiser invested in making sure the bill was the way it should be, that it speaks to the realities of communities that are affected by the issue. That it was done in collaboration with stakeholders in this issue, we [the Washington Coalition] have worked with her in the process of creating a bill to give feedback and input on what we think should be in the bill, and what shouldn’t. And working to find a common ground, so that we could work collectively. I think that can be seen in how well the bill was done and how well it’s progressing in the legislature at this time.” As SB 5453 moves to the House after passing in the Senate on March 1st, the Coalition continues to lead the drive for change. Though Absa’s goal was never to form this Coalition or even do this legislative advocacy, she has found herself here by believing in this work. The support of her fellow Coalition members, many of whom are also survivors that care deeply about this work, has also been critical; Absa has learned that “little steps and persistence will inspire others to power it along.” When considering their success, she emphasizes the importance of varied backgrounds and expertise that Coalition members bring to the table, which got things going in the right direction. “Building a team and getting various stakeholders involved in making change happen is significant. Collective voice has the power.” When asked for any advice she may have for other advocates, or anyone hoping to take a stand for something important to them, Absa had this to say: “Do something. Not doing anything is not an option. The little wins matter, and what makes the goal achievable is not entirely dependent on one individual, it takes a collective. The more you keep going, the more people buy into your goal, the closer you get to achieving the goal.” In the case of Washington, this certainly rings true. Absa Samba is a graduate student pursuing a double masters in Social Work and Public Administration at the University of Washington’s Evans School of Public Policy and Governance and the School of Social Work. She is a survivor of FGC and a passionate advocate for