Starting March 8th, International Women’s Day, Sahiyo U.S. will be hosting a virtual silent auction to raise funds and awareness for our programs and services to end female genital cutting (FGC). The auction will open on Wednesday, March 8th, 9am PST/ 12pm EST and close on Sunday, March 12th, 6pm PST/ 9pm EST. We have some amazing sponsors and auction items have been provided by our supporters., To uplift and thank them for their contribution, we’re highlighting who they are and why they support Sahiyo.
When and how did your involvement with Sahiyo first begin?
I was only very recently formally introduced to Sahiyo by Arefa Casshobhoy, who is the daughter of one of my closest friends. Before that, I knew of the organisation’s existence through my daughter, who had interacted with Sahiyo in California about four years ago. Even then, I was not aware of the work that was being done by the organisation; however, regarding the practice of FGM/C, I have been aware of it since I was in high school, and it is an issue that’s very close to my heart. My cousin, a doctor who was much older than me, talked to me about it as I was growing up. We made sure that it was not practiced within our own family. So when Arefa talked to me about Sahiyo, I was thrilled to learn about the work that you all are doing.
Why did you decide to give to Sahiyo’s Silent Auction? What does the event mean to you?
When I heard that Sahiyo was hosting its first-ever Auction, I knew I wanted to help in whatever way I could. I knew it would be hard for me to physically get involved because of my age andthe nature of work on Khatna would be overwhelming for me. But, I thought that the least I could do was financially contribute to the cause.
What did you donate?
I donated $500 in cash, and since I am a franchisee of Taco Bell, I matched my donation with $500 worth of Taco Bell coupons.
How would you like your donation to help Sahiyo grow?
I think I’d like this money to go towards generating awareness. It’s so sad, you know, that this practice is so hush-hush within our [Bohra] community and half the men in the household don’t even know it is taking place. I wish more men would get educated and involved in this, just as I was given the opportunity to do when I was younger.
Why do you think others should donate to Sahiyo?
With Sahiyo’s wide volunteer network and people like Arefa on the Advisory Board, I know that the team truly cares about the work that they are doing and the money is going in the right direction. People should donate to Sahiyo U.S. because their donations will be used prudently, and for a great cause.
A note from the Editor: If you are interested in male engagement work around FGM/C, we encourage you to look into Sahiyo’s male ally program, Bhaiyo.