By: Samman Masud
On March 26, Sahiyo hosted a virtual, private film screening of the documentary, ‘Haram Ni Boti’ for the Activists Retreat, Bhaiyo Male Allies, and the Voices to End FGM/C program alumni. Sahiyo’s volunteers and interns also joined the viewing followed by a discussion with the filmmaker and Bhaiyo member, Hatim Yusuf. Created as part of a college project, the film highlights female genital mutilation or cutting (FGM/C) within the South Asian Bohra community and features interviews with survivors and experts discussing the various reasons FGM/C persists in the community.
After the film screening, attendees had an opportunity to take part in a Q&A session with Hatim in which he discussed his personal motivation for making the film and the difficulties he faced in getting community members to participate, particularly due to the fear of community ostracization. The group explored how FGC is rooted in broader patriarchal structures, emphasizing that long-term change requires addressing underlying norms rather than only the practice itself. Participants noted generational shifts and the potential for increased awareness through community education, while others acknowledged barriers such as growing conservatism that limit open dialogue within the community. The discussion also focused on documentation and advocacy efforts, including the important role of storytelling in shifting perspectives and opening critical dialogue.
Overall, the discussion underscored the importance of survivor-centered, community-led approaches, nuanced advocacy, and continued dialogue to support meaningful and sustainable change. Due to the success of the film screening, Sahiyo is planning to host a second screening of the documentary to accommodate its program participants located across the world.
