Date: Friday, Feb 6th, 2026
Time: from 10:00am to 2:00 pm ET
Location: Girls Inc, 125 Providence St, Worcester, MA 01604
Registration Link: https://bit.ly/HopeLaunchEvent
Join us for the official launch of the HOPE MA Coalition on February 6th, 2026—the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C).
Female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) involves the partial or total removal of the external female genitalia, or other injury to the female genital organs, for non-medical reasons. It is recognized internationally as a human rights violation and a form of gender-based violence. Massachusetts ranks 12th nationwide for women and girls at risk of or living with FGM/C. Current estimates indicate over 9,400 women and girls are living with FGM/C in Massachusetts, with nearly 700 girls at risk of undergoing it.
This invite-only event is designed for healthcare providers, social workers, community advocates, survivors, and allies who want to learn more or strengthen their commitment to ending FGM/C in Massachusetts and to developing systems of care for survivors through education, support, and policy change. Through community conversation, collective learning, and inspiring performances, the HOPE MA Coalition Launch Event will bring attendees into the project’s vision and lay the foundation for ongoing collaboration. A networking lunch will also allow for building further connections.
HOPE MA (Holistic Organized Partnerships to End FGM/C in Massachusetts) was developed from a five-year grant from the Massachusetts Community Health and Healthy Aging Funds. The UMass Collaborative in Health Equity, The U.S. Network to End FGM/C, and Sahiyo comprise the project team, which aims to unite healthcare, social services, law enforcement, and community organizations to address both immediate needs and long-term systemic change throughout Massachusetts.
The day will feature artistic performances from Aseemkala Initiative and Crocodile River Music.
Event Speakers:
- State Senator Robyn Kennedy, 1st Worcester District
- Dr. Crista Johnson Agbakwu, Executive Director, Collaborative in Health Equity at UMass Chan
- Mariya Taher, Executive Director & Cofounder, Sahiyo
- Caitlin LeMay, Executive Director, The U.S. End FGM/C Network
Legislative Leaders, Representatives Higgins and Livingstone played crucial roles in the passage of Massachusetts’ groundbreaking FGM/C law, and we are grateful for their continued advocacy and support.
• Representative Natalie Higgins – Original lead bill sponsor for Massachusetts’ FGM/C legislation (H.4606), which was signed into law in August 2020
• Representative Jay Livingstone – Original lead bill sponsor for Massachusetts’ FGM/C legislation (H.4606), which was signed into law in August 2020