Selected Podcast

Ending Female Genital Mutilation

Ending Female Genital Mutilation
You’re probably aware of female genital mutilation (FGM) in other countries. 

But, it’s also a problem in the United States. It’s gone unreported and unsuspected.

FGM is a hideous, horrendous practice. The End FGM Today movement works to criminalize the act in every state. Currently, it’s only illegal in 24 states in America. It’s been a Federal crime since 1996 but is still practiced underground.

Surprisingly, mothers are taking their young daughters across state lines for this brutal procedure. It eliminates sexual desire for life.

Law enforcement and the public can help end FGM. Here’s how:

  • Open up your eyes and ears for evidence of the practice. Pediatricians, physicians and emergency room personnel are in a good position to advocate and protect little girls.
  • Call the child welfare hotline, the local police department or the FBI hotline if you suspect FGM. Religious practices are no excuse for brutalizing children.
  • Encourage state legislators to criminalize FGM in every state.
  • Use social media hashtag #EndFGMToday to bring awareness to this horrific practice.
Listen as advocate Liz Yore joins Dr. Pamela Peeke to share how to end female genital mutilation.

Resource:

End FGM Today

Sponsor:

Smarty Pants Vitamins
Featured Speaker:
Liz Yore, Head of End FGM Today Initiative
Liz YoreElizabeth (Liz) Yore has spent 30 years in legal child advocacy. She now serves as the head of the new initiative, “End FGM Today."

Liz previously served as Special Counsel at Harpo, Inc. as Oprah Winfrey’s child advocate.


She was also General Counsel at the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services for eight years and the General Counsel at the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.