New figures from the Centers for Disease Control estimate that more than 500,000 women and girls in the US are dealing with the consequences of female genital mutilation (FGM) — a number that is three times greater than previous estimates.
According to the World Health Organization, female genital mutilation, or FGM, can cause severe bleeding and problems urinating, and later cysts, infections, and infertility as well as complications in childbirth and increased risk of newborn deaths.
It's estimated that more than 125 million women and girls worldwide have been subjected to this brutal human rights violation. It's a global problem, but one that we can help solve here at home.
The International Violence Against Women Act (IVAWA) would prioritize ending FGM and other forms of violence against women and girls. It's expected to be re-introduced in Congress this year, so let's start showing support now to help fast track its approval.
Existing laws alone are insufficient. The US must solidify its commitment to ending FGM and other forms of violence against women and girls through the passage of IVAWA.
Help end FGM and protect women and girls. Tell your members of Congress to support IVAWA.
Dear Decision Maker,
As someone who is concerned about the safety and equality of the world’s women and girls, I strongly urge you to do whatever you can to ensure the re-introduction and passage of the International Violence Against Women Act during this Congress.
Worldwide, the more 125 million women and girls are believed to have been subjected to female genital mutilation. And new draft figures from the Centers for Disease Control estimate that more than 500,000 women and girls in the US are dealing with the consequences of female genital mutilation (FGM) — a number that is three times greater than previous estimates.
This brutal practice is a fundamental violation of human rights and can cause severe bleeding and problems urinating, and later cysts, infections, infertility as well as complications in childbirth and increased risk of newborn deaths.
[Your comments here]
Existing laws alone are insufficient. The US must solidify its commitment to ending FGM and other forms of violence against women and girls.
The International Violence Against Women Act would prioritize ending FGM and make the equality and safety of women and girls a key priority in US foreign policy. I strongly urge you to support this important legislation.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
