A definite NO when it involves children. I am all for maintaining culture, but we must remember, that these customs were initiated with uneducated communities.I think that it is time for some modification to take place, to fit in with today’s society. An adult is free to make a choice, as to what they do to their body, although i do not hear a fuss being made about male circumcision, genital piercings, labiaplasty etc .Mutilation of the body can even in-cooperate ear piercings and tattoos.
This blog has provided great insight into female genital mutilation as I didn’t even know enough about it to know there were types. It is something I never really followed. However after reading and learning more I must say I agree with female genital mutilation ( but anaesthetics need to be provided) I think the western world need to stop imposing their lifestyles and beliefs on other cultures as for them it’s tradition and what they believe is right. Yes it can be painful and even degrading but if they believe it’s for the good of the victim, who are we to say otherwise? In a world where morale is being thrown out of the window and children are having under age and unprotective sex) it is no wonder female genital mutilation is on the increase- safety measures must be put in place, and traditions followed. These women still go on to live normal everyday lives, have kids and move on so it’s best we let them be. The western world have no problem killing people they believe are criminals using the ‘death penalty’ and they’re not stopped, so who are we to complain about female genital mutilation? Hypocritical much?
Culture is important,but not when it affects a woman’s reproductive rights. Some women develop menstrual problems, psychological problems, marital problems and sometimes die during labour. Do you still support this practise? Try talking to an ostracised young girl who probably lost her child during labour and now is a walking stink bomb because she leaks urine and faeces through her vagina.
Owing to the fact that you have used the word ‘victim’ you cannot truly believe that FGM is a good thing. I can understand your stance in terms of the western world imposing their culture onto another culture, however, when it comes to children, it’s child abuse. Plain and simple. “These women still go on to live normal everyday lives…” I will refer you back to the ‘About’ page where you can re-read the effects of FGM. You cannot compare the death penalty to FGm, it’s completely different. In terms of underage and unprotected sex, the statistics for this are nowhere near close to the statistics for FGM, so the two simply cannot be compared. However if you want to, the support given to those having underage and unprotected sex is overwhelming, in comparison to those who’ve suffered FGM or are at risk. The support for this, is still somewhat undeground. Hence why people need to know about FGM.
I didn’t know much about female genital mutation and always thought of it as another way for males to control women, however this is clearly not the case. I think its not right to force a young girl to circumcision from the videos I’ve seen children look like they’re in pain not only psychically but psychologically although culture is seen as the reason for them to do so it can be classed as child abuse. However if a woman is of age who wants to do it for cultural reason and understands what it means to circumcised as a woman I think it is not problem, she knows her reasons for why she is doing it and knows the risk of being circumcised
After reading this page, I have tuned into channel 4 and it’s really made me think. Why does this happen? For culture? Maybe. For saving virginity? I just can’t comprehend why family and friends would do this to an innocent child who does not know any different. For women to do this to other women is mental, they don’t seem to understand that they are doing this to their children and most times condemning their child to a life without children of their own. They seem to say ‘it’s to help marriage ability’ however these children/woman find it embarrassing (rightly) and painful to be involved with their husbands and can’t be living a comfy and happy life.
Lets first have a look at the definition of female genital mutilation. ‘Procedures that intentionally alter or cause injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons’. The definition explains it all. This isn’t about culture, what kind of cultures destroys humanity? This is inhumane. This is the 21st century we are supposed to be growing in modernity and equality.
What are the reasons for disregarding women’s sexuality? For the greed of men wanting their women to be how they want them to be. I thought we had left this kind of ruthless mentality behind. I repeat this is not culture nor are women ok with this and if they are then its a shame!
I am truly embarrassed that this is even a discussion, we will be far behind in thinking that this is the way forward to a westernised world.
Something needs to be done. I couldn’t disagree more that is is not culture!
What do you suggest gets done? As for the greed of men, I do not believe that it’s the greed of men, but more the ignorance of men perpetuating this tradition. Let’s not forget that it’s women who pass down this tradition, but a lot of these women are passing down old views where a women’s virginty and “purity” were necessary in order to find a husband and survive…
It is horrifying that this “tradition” still takes place in this day and age! It does not benefit the victims in any way and physically and emotionally scars young girls. The fact that mothers, aunties and sisters encourage and take part in the mutilation of young girls goes to show they have been brainwashed into a ridiculous belief and rather than support the future of the sisterhood, they’re encouraging men that what we are born with is dirty and disposable. The sooner this nonsense is stopped the better!
‘Procedures that intentionally alter or cause injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons’ – Absolutely frightening. Can you imagine how life would be if all women had to go through with this?
Around the world women are still being belittled and regarded as the less significant sex, fueling sexism rows as well as human rights arguments. It is appalling that the culture surrounding GM enforces this behaviour on women only, suggesting that they are the ones who will commit sins, never mind the males.
I am 100% against FGM but I can understand the importance of religious beliefs and ways of culture, therefore I don’t understand why education in to the importance of purity and tradition isn’t utilised. People should be allowed to make their own decisions at an adult age based on their education received, personal thoughts, feelings and understanding of the subject, we should never be pressured in to doing something that we don’t want to do.
It’s about learning how to respect others. Parent/Guardians may be disappointed in their child’s decision, but that degree of family and support should always be made available.
I would never do this if I were to ever have a daughter. However, I want to highlight the fact that most people in western countries simply look at this debate from a medical perspective. Medically the risks far out weight the benefits.
However, it is more difficult to understand this argument from a cultural perspective, the only way you can truly do this is through ethnography i.e. Immersing yourself in the society and culture over time.
If you do this, I think only then can you appreciate the value FGM may bring to a girl who had undergone this procedure e.g. The way they feel about themselves, the way a member of the opposite sex feels about them (who doesn’t want to be attractive?)
Ask a girl from these societies if they are happy they’ve received FGM, the answer is likely to be yes.
On the flip side, what would it be like to be in the minority in this society who hasn’t undergone this procedure. I can only imagine it is akin to living with a disability i.e.
bullying, prejudice, disadvantages etc.
Life is not only about medical factors, we in western societies have the freedom to make decisions everyday which may put our lives on the line. I wander what these countries think about us skydiving, motorbiking, bungee jumping etc.
Who is to say that these females who have FGM truly do not believe it is worth putting their lives on the line for? If they do, who the hell am I to say they shouldn’t?
Lastly, to change a cultural norm is something that will take generations to implement. If we are so concerned can we not work together to improve things instead? i.e. Put money into research that ultimately make the procedures safer?
FGM appears to me to be yet another product of patriarchy. Its a form of control over our sisters and needs to be addressed as such. How will our daughters be able to grow and overstand if they experience this kind of trauma at such a young age or any age.
As for the growing media coverage of FGM in the UK some of which has been pushed by strong woman often with personal experiences, who are fighting for a better world. In other cases papers like the daily mail are rubbing there hands together at the thought of front pages being filled with a new way to breed fear and hatred towards Black people that doesn’t involve our youth stabbing each other. Their aim is to divide us.
We must protect our women and girls and unite against Babylon!
Female Genital Mutilation 
Nov 06, 2013 @ 15:35:36
A definite NO when it involves children. I am all for maintaining culture, but we must remember, that these customs were initiated with uneducated communities.I think that it is time for some modification to take place, to fit in with today’s society. An adult is free to make a choice, as to what they do to their body, although i do not hear a fuss being made about male circumcision, genital piercings, labiaplasty etc .Mutilation of the body can even in-cooperate ear piercings and tattoos.
Nov 06, 2013 @ 17:07:43
This blog has provided great insight into female genital mutilation as I didn’t even know enough about it to know there were types. It is something I never really followed. However after reading and learning more I must say I agree with female genital mutilation ( but anaesthetics need to be provided) I think the western world need to stop imposing their lifestyles and beliefs on other cultures as for them it’s tradition and what they believe is right. Yes it can be painful and even degrading but if they believe it’s for the good of the victim, who are we to say otherwise? In a world where morale is being thrown out of the window and children are having under age and unprotective sex) it is no wonder female genital mutilation is on the increase- safety measures must be put in place, and traditions followed. These women still go on to live normal everyday lives, have kids and move on so it’s best we let them be. The western world have no problem killing people they believe are criminals using the ‘death penalty’ and they’re not stopped, so who are we to complain about female genital mutilation? Hypocritical much?
Nov 08, 2013 @ 10:30:23
Culture is important,but not when it affects a woman’s reproductive rights. Some women develop menstrual problems, psychological problems, marital problems and sometimes die during labour. Do you still support this practise? Try talking to an ostracised young girl who probably lost her child during labour and now is a walking stink bomb because she leaks urine and faeces through her vagina.
Nov 10, 2013 @ 00:19:07
Are you asking me if I support FGM?
Nov 10, 2013 @ 00:33:45
Owing to the fact that you have used the word ‘victim’ you cannot truly believe that FGM is a good thing. I can understand your stance in terms of the western world imposing their culture onto another culture, however, when it comes to children, it’s child abuse. Plain and simple. “These women still go on to live normal everyday lives…” I will refer you back to the ‘About’ page where you can re-read the effects of FGM. You cannot compare the death penalty to FGm, it’s completely different. In terms of underage and unprotected sex, the statistics for this are nowhere near close to the statistics for FGM, so the two simply cannot be compared. However if you want to, the support given to those having underage and unprotected sex is overwhelming, in comparison to those who’ve suffered FGM or are at risk. The support for this, is still somewhat undeground. Hence why people need to know about FGM.
Nov 06, 2013 @ 22:10:05
I didn’t know much about female genital mutation and always thought of it as another way for males to control women, however this is clearly not the case. I think its not right to force a young girl to circumcision from the videos I’ve seen children look like they’re in pain not only psychically but psychologically although culture is seen as the reason for them to do so it can be classed as child abuse. However if a woman is of age who wants to do it for cultural reason and understands what it means to circumcised as a woman I think it is not problem, she knows her reasons for why she is doing it and knows the risk of being circumcised
Nov 10, 2013 @ 00:35:54
@Author, I was referring to Just a small town girl. My apologies.
Nov 06, 2013 @ 23:13:41
After reading this page, I have tuned into channel 4 and it’s really made me think. Why does this happen? For culture? Maybe. For saving virginity? I just can’t comprehend why family and friends would do this to an innocent child who does not know any different. For women to do this to other women is mental, they don’t seem to understand that they are doing this to their children and most times condemning their child to a life without children of their own. They seem to say ‘it’s to help marriage ability’ however these children/woman find it embarrassing (rightly) and painful to be involved with their husbands and can’t be living a comfy and happy life.
NOPE NOPE NOPE
Nov 06, 2013 @ 23:56:31
Lets first have a look at the definition of female genital mutilation. ‘Procedures that intentionally alter or cause injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons’. The definition explains it all. This isn’t about culture, what kind of cultures destroys humanity? This is inhumane. This is the 21st century we are supposed to be growing in modernity and equality.
What are the reasons for disregarding women’s sexuality? For the greed of men wanting their women to be how they want them to be. I thought we had left this kind of ruthless mentality behind. I repeat this is not culture nor are women ok with this and if they are then its a shame!
I am truly embarrassed that this is even a discussion, we will be far behind in thinking that this is the way forward to a westernised world.
Something needs to be done. I couldn’t disagree more that is is not culture!
Nov 10, 2013 @ 00:22:04
What do you suggest gets done? As for the greed of men, I do not believe that it’s the greed of men, but more the ignorance of men perpetuating this tradition. Let’s not forget that it’s women who pass down this tradition, but a lot of these women are passing down old views where a women’s virginty and “purity” were necessary in order to find a husband and survive…
Nov 07, 2013 @ 09:40:51
It is horrifying that this “tradition” still takes place in this day and age! It does not benefit the victims in any way and physically and emotionally scars young girls. The fact that mothers, aunties and sisters encourage and take part in the mutilation of young girls goes to show they have been brainwashed into a ridiculous belief and rather than support the future of the sisterhood, they’re encouraging men that what we are born with is dirty and disposable. The sooner this nonsense is stopped the better!
Nov 10, 2013 @ 15:34:18
‘Procedures that intentionally alter or cause injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons’ – Absolutely frightening. Can you imagine how life would be if all women had to go through with this?
Around the world women are still being belittled and regarded as the less significant sex, fueling sexism rows as well as human rights arguments. It is appalling that the culture surrounding GM enforces this behaviour on women only, suggesting that they are the ones who will commit sins, never mind the males.
I am 100% against FGM but I can understand the importance of religious beliefs and ways of culture, therefore I don’t understand why education in to the importance of purity and tradition isn’t utilised. People should be allowed to make their own decisions at an adult age based on their education received, personal thoughts, feelings and understanding of the subject, we should never be pressured in to doing something that we don’t want to do.
It’s about learning how to respect others. Parent/Guardians may be disappointed in their child’s decision, but that degree of family and support should always be made available.
Nov 11, 2013 @ 11:02:50
I would never do this if I were to ever have a daughter. However, I want to highlight the fact that most people in western countries simply look at this debate from a medical perspective. Medically the risks far out weight the benefits.
However, it is more difficult to understand this argument from a cultural perspective, the only way you can truly do this is through ethnography i.e. Immersing yourself in the society and culture over time.
If you do this, I think only then can you appreciate the value FGM may bring to a girl who had undergone this procedure e.g. The way they feel about themselves, the way a member of the opposite sex feels about them (who doesn’t want to be attractive?)
Ask a girl from these societies if they are happy they’ve received FGM, the answer is likely to be yes.
On the flip side, what would it be like to be in the minority in this society who hasn’t undergone this procedure. I can only imagine it is akin to living with a disability i.e.
bullying, prejudice, disadvantages etc.
Life is not only about medical factors, we in western societies have the freedom to make decisions everyday which may put our lives on the line. I wander what these countries think about us skydiving, motorbiking, bungee jumping etc.
Who is to say that these females who have FGM truly do not believe it is worth putting their lives on the line for? If they do, who the hell am I to say they shouldn’t?
Lastly, to change a cultural norm is something that will take generations to implement. If we are so concerned can we not work together to improve things instead? i.e. Put money into research that ultimately make the procedures safer?
Feb 21, 2014 @ 16:33:35
Fantastic blog post, very interesting topic
Mar 03, 2014 @ 11:40:26
FGM appears to me to be yet another product of patriarchy. Its a form of control over our sisters and needs to be addressed as such. How will our daughters be able to grow and overstand if they experience this kind of trauma at such a young age or any age.
As for the growing media coverage of FGM in the UK some of which has been pushed by strong woman often with personal experiences, who are fighting for a better world. In other cases papers like the daily mail are rubbing there hands together at the thought of front pages being filled with a new way to breed fear and hatred towards Black people that doesn’t involve our youth stabbing each other. Their aim is to divide us.
We must protect our women and girls and unite against Babylon!