Whether we call it female circumcision or female genital mutilation, it is a horrible practice and it should be stopped. However nowadays FGM has been branded as Somali barbaric practice issue in the eyes of many British when less than 5% of Somalis maybe practice in the UK and I would love to see if anyone prove me figure higher than 1-5%. This is due to lack of fair and balanced representation of our community and the image presented of us is disproportionate and unfair. This community is facing layers and layers of unfair treatment at airports where we have been picked for all wrong reasons- Al-Shabaab, Khat and now FGM where we have been asked to undress our young daughters at airports to examine their private parts. Therefore, today we have two challenges- one is for us to guide, correct and stop if necessary those of us who presents disproportionate image of us and two for us to challenge and change the perception of the authority. Eventually for FGM to be eradicated, we need to ensure, we use right mechanism platforms and right sectors of society including religion leaders. And we have to ensure innocent mother who circumcision her daughter out of ignorance isnt persecuted as many of them are not aware of the law. As collective voice we need to prioritise local authorities and central government provisions are grass root education and giving necessary tools and support for our practitioners rather than having check points at schools, ports and social services. Somalis says- masaajidka ciyaarta ha laga dhaafo when they see untrue and fair image portrayed.
Posted on: Tue, 30 Sep 2014 21:31:20 +0000
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