On July 22, HOPE MA partnered with the Massachusetts Children’s Alliance to present “Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting 101” as part of a lunch-and-learn professional development series for Massachusetts Child Advocacy Centers (CACs) across the commonwealth. This 60-minute session introduced essential knowledge about FGM/C, reviewed Massachusetts law H4606, and explored how CAC staff can recognize and respond to potential cases with cultural sensitivity.
The attendees represented Child Advocacy Centers throughout the state, including Plymouth, Middlesex, Bristol, Suffolk, and Hampshire counties, and held a range of professional roles from victim advocates and forensic interviewers to program managers, clinicians, and directors.
Participants noted that even in the one-hour session, they gained practical tools for survivor-informed advocacy and prevention. One follow-up message shared that:
“they will take back this information to their respective teams.”
The training highlighted how equipping multidisciplinary teams with knowledge of FGM/C strengthens child protection work and builds bridges across systems.
We are looking forward to continuing to offer outreach and education opportunities throughout the state and invite any interested parties to complete this form to request a training.
