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, […]
Intern spotlight: Khushi Prakash
Every month, Sahiyo likes to highlight the incredible work of our staff members, fellows, and interns. Today, we’re spotlighting Sahiyo’s current Policy Intern, Khushi Prakash. Khushi holds a Bachelor’s degree in Epidemiology/Biostatistics and Biology from the University of Western Ontario. She is now pursuing a Master of Public Health degree specializing in Health Policy & […]
Climate Change, Displacement And The Rising Risk Of Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting
By Mannat K, Sahiyo Volunteer When we think about the impacts of climate change, we often focus on rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and threats to food security. What receives far less attention is how environmental crises disproportionately harm women and girls, particularly those in vulnerable communities, by intensifying gender-based violence such as female […]
Reflections from London: Survivor-Experts on Healing, Solidarity, and the Future of the Anti-FGM/C Movement
By Renee Bergstrom In December 2025, Sahiyo and Dr. Leyla Hussein convened a small, in-person gathering of seven survivors and experts from Africa, Asia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The meeting created space to foster honest dialogue, promote healing in solidarity, and discuss how anti-racist narratives have impacted the FGM/C movement. Participants also […]
Beyond the Statute: The Role of South Asian Lawyers in Ending FGM/C
Date: April 2nd Time: 12:00pm -1:00pm EST Type: Virtual This one-hour event situates FGM/C within a North American context and explores the role lawyers can play beyond the courtroom in prevention, advocacy, and survivor-centered support. The virtual panel will introduce participants to the current legal framework around FGM/C in the United States and Canada, while […]
CelebrateHer 2026: Comedy, Community, and Supporting Survivors During Domestic Violence Awareness Month
During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we are reminded that safety, dignity, and freedom from violence are fundamental human rights. Gender-based violence takes many forms, including female genital cutting (FGC), a harmful practice rooted in gender inequality and power imbalances. When carried out by family members, FGC can also be considered a form of domestic violence. […]