Legislation on Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) in the United States: Laws, Challenges, and Advocacy
Description
In the United States, FGM/C is illegal under federal law, including the Federal Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation Act of 1996 and the STOP FGM Act of 2020. These laws criminalize performing FGM/C on minors and penalize those who carry out or attempt the procedure. They also prohibit transporting minors out of the U.S. for FGM/C (“vacation cutting”). Despite these protections, FGM/C remains a pressing concern in the U.S. As of the most recent data, 41 states have laws specifically criminalizing FGM/C, leaving 9 states and territories without such laws. In these areas, federal laws still apply, but the absence of state-level laws can lead to gaps in local awareness, prevention, and enforcement. Significant progress has been made in legislation and awareness, but challenges remain. It is crucial to ensure that families and communities are informed about the legal consequences and health impacts of FGM/C and that survivors receive necessary medical, psychological, and legal support. This webinar will explore the history of U.S. federal and state laws prohibiting FGM/C, recent legal cases, and prevention challenges. It will also cover ongoing advocacy efforts to raise awareness about the harmful impacts of FGM/C and the importance of legal protections for those at risk.