Framing FGM/C in Providing Services, Public Perception, and Advocacy

Date & Time: January 23, 2025 @ 3:00-4:30 PM EDT 

Register: https://bit.ly/FramingFGMC

Female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) affects many women and girls in diverse communities across the United States, yet it remains a hidden practice. Despite ongoing initiatives to address FGM/C, progress is hindered by misunderstandings and limited public awareness, which can hamper efforts to provide social services to survivors of FGM/C and work towards prevention of this form of gender-based violence. Service providers and community partners addressing gender-based violence are in a unique position to to shed light on FGM/C and support FGM/C survivors, who may already be accessing their services considering FGM/C survivors can be at increased risk of other forms of gender-based violence at some point in their lifetime. 

This training provides historical context in connection to communications on FGM/C in the United States and introduces key strategies for GBV service providers to frame conversations around the issue to foster meaningful interactions. Focusing on how we discuss and represent FGM/C can influence public perception, advocacy, and community engagement. Participants will learn how to foster culturally sensitive collaboration with impacted communities while balancing a commitment to human rights and health.