28th Annual Student Research Conference
Female Genital Mutilation - A Personal Perspective
UmmeKulsoom Arif
Dr. Hena Ahmad, Faculty Mentor
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), often erroneously referred to as female circumcision, recently came into the public spotlight after the UN declared February 6 as the National Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation. Defined by the WHO as any injury to the female genital organs for nonmedical reasons, FGM has no health benefits. On the contrary, it can cause lasting damage. FGM is common in many African countries and also common in the Bohra sect of Islam despite evidence in the Quran that bans the practice. Historical evidence holds that FGM was widely practiced in pre-Islamic, tribal society and that practice bled over to the followers of Bohra Islam once the religion was established. This paper will explore the psychological and physical impact of FGM through medical studies and personal stories.
Keywords: Female, Genital, Mutilation, Women, Feminism, Torture, Religion
Topic(s):Women's and Gender Studies
English
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 406-1
Location: MG 2050
Time: 2:30