Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) and Anti-Immigrant Narratives: Why California Needs to Strengthen Its Law on FGM/C
Worldwide, over 230 million women and girls have undergone female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C), and currently, an additional 30 million girls under the age of 15 are at risk worldwide. In the United States, a 2019 estimate stated that FGM/C has impacted 421,000 women and girls, and while most of these women and girls are survivors […]
Bringing Movements Together to Address Harmful Conflations
What happens when survivors, advocates, and community leaders across movements—often working in parallel—are able to come together in one shared space? This May, Sahiyo will help make that possible. Sahiyo is honored to be part of a unique and timely opportunity to convene survivors, advocates, and members of the LGBTQI+ community for a first-of-its-kind gathering […]
Investing in the Future of Survivor-Centered Work
At Sahiyo, we believe that lasting social change is built through community-centered investment in survivor voices and gender justice. Sustaining survivor-centered work requires long-term commitment that extends beyond immediate programming needs. One member of Sahiyo’s community shared: “Being part of this community of survivors has given me knowledge, understanding, and confidence I never had before. […]
Applications now open: 2026 digital storytelling workshop!
Sahiyo, Silence Speaks, HOPE MA, and Saheli would like to announce a special workshop for immigrant and refugee survivors of gender-based violence and their allies. This workshop will bring together individuals from diverse immigrant and refugee communities to share stories of resilience, healing, and collective strength. Through storytelling, participants will have the opportunity to reflect […]
“Asking the Question”: Reconnecting with Australia’s African Women’s Clinic
By: Kiah Leone It has been nearly two-and-a-half years since I last sat down with Marie Jones to talk about her work with the African Women’s Clinic (AWC), and the care they provide to survivors of female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) living in Australia. At the time of our previous conversation, the AWC was Australia’s only […]
Policy Update from the Washington Coalition to End FGM/C
Following the 2023 passage of SB 5453, the Washington Coalition to End FGM/C continued working to advance policies that center the dignity, safety, and rights of FGM/C survivors. This year, the coalition led coordinated advocacy in support of SB 6017, the next step in strengthening Washington’s response to FGM/C and making sure survivors can access […]
What Teens Can Do to Help End FGM/C
By Meher Jammi According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), more than 4.4 million girls are at risk of undergoing female genital mutilation or cutting this year (2025). FGM/C is a harmful practice that is rooted in gender inequality, shame, and silence. As teenagers, we often feel powerless when it comes to huge problems […]
Reflecting on The Maryland Legislative Webinar
On February 25, 2026, the DMV Coalition to End FGM/C, a survivor-oriented and informed coalition focused on advocacy and advancing legislation in the D.C., Maryland, and Viginia or DMV area, hosted a powerful webinar highlighting Maryland’s current FGM/C landscape. Bringing together over 40 individuals from across the state—ranging from state department employees to university students […]
Connecticut Judiciary Committee Hears Testimony on SB 259 to Strengthen Protections for Women Against Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C)
By: Khushi Prakash On Monday, March 2nd, SB 259 was heard before the Connecticut General Assembly’s Judiciary Committee. The hearing brought together advocates, policy experts, and survivors who testified to the urgent need for comprehensive state-level protections against FGM/C. They include: Together the speakers highlighted the serious physical, psychological, and social harms associated with FGM/C. […]
Sahiyo’s 10th Annual Activists Retreat
From February 13–15, 2026, Sahiyo hosted its 10th annual Activists Retreat, bringing together seven participants for a weekend of learning, reflection, and strategic planning to address female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C). The retreat created a safe and private space for activists interested in ending FGM/C to connect with one another, deepen their understanding of the issue, […]