To our Sahiyo community,
We realize that the past few weeks have been stressful to say the least. With the new administration’s slew of Executive Orders targeting the most vulnerable and the dismantlement of DEI programs at various organizations, we acknowledge that fear and trepidation are on the rise. If you’re in need of support, please check out the resources at the end of this blog.
We admit: we’re also concerned. It’s disturbing watching the Trump administration blatantly conflate FGC and gender-affirming care. As we explained in a recent blog, this not only endangers trans and LGBTQ+ youth but also survivors of FGM/C.
Additionally, we know that the recent attempt to freeze federal funding has worried many of you given the potential it has to impact critical programs and resources for our community. We want to assure all of you that Sahiyo is working to secure more funding and continue our programing to support survivors.
We’re also working hard on no longer relying as much on government funding given it’s not a reliable source these days. To do that, though, we need your help. We understand these are hard times for everybody, but any kind of monetary donation would help us continue our work during the Trump era. Please, if you can, donate here.
In the meantime, we hope you are all taking care of yourselves and each other, and know that we will get through this together.
With love and in solidarity,
Sahiyo
Helpful resources:
- Our partner, the Asian Women’s Shelter, has a helpful crisis line for FGC survivors (1-877-751-0880)
- Rape / Sexual Abuse / Incest National Hotline (RAIN): 800-656-4673
- Members of the LGBTQ community can call 1-866-488-7386 or visit www.thetrevorproject.org
- The South Asian Network provides a variety of health and wellbeing resources along with useful information to help immigrants protect themselves
- BlackLine Crisis Call Line: 1-800-604-5841
- The National Hispanic Family Health Helpline, Su Familia: 1-866-783-2645
- Dial 988 or visit www.988lifeline.org if you or somebody you know are in a crisis or experiencing thoughts of suicide
- Psychology Today is a large directory connecting you with therapists, support groups, psychiatrists, and other mental health professionals in your area or virtually
- The ACLU provides information on your rights if you come into contact with or are questioned by immigration officers