Women speak out – Stories about Female Genital Mutilation

Drawing on data from a digital storytelling project with women directly affected by female genital mutilation (FGM) (funded by the ROSA fund for girls and women and based at WomenCentre, Kirklees), this presentation looks at stories of FGM experiences and practices using spoken word, images and music. With many organisations and professionals seeking to eradicate FGM, working with women and girls from FGM affected communities and engaging in different forms of community engagement can be essential to protection, safety and prevention. Creative and potentially non-stigmatising approaches can ensure we listen to the voices of women and girls who oppose the practice, and to others who can support them in doing so, as well as support with strengthening community-based prevention and awareness of FGM among affected communities.