Despite often being dismissed as foreign or cultural problems, harmful gender-based practices exist in every community across the United States, affecting countless individuals. Behind Closed Doors confronts the reality of female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C); child, early, and forced marriage/union (CEFMU); femicide; and virginity testing occurring within the United States—emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive action. The ripple effect of gender-based harm transcends geographical boundaries; recognizing the universal dimensions is crucial for showing solidarity with the global community working against these injustices.
Behind Closed Doors calls for culturally competent legislation, survivor-centered resources, and comprehensive sexuality education to address the root causes and effects of harmful gender-based practices. Specific considerations must be taken for the LGBTQI+ community, who face disproportionate rates of violence and suffer unique impacts of gender-based harms. Behind Closed Doors strives to enact meaningful change and support a future where all individuals can thrive in safety and dignity through collaborative efforts with policymakers, community leaders, healthcare professionals, and advocacy groups.
WEBINAR: Breaking the Silence on FGM/C in the U.S.
Did you miss our webinar in November? Check it out below.
This webinar is the first of a three-part series that will explore the critical issue of gender-based violence (GBV) within the United States, based on findings and recommendations from the report, “Behind Closed Doors: Exposing and Addressing Harmful Gender-Based Practices in the United States”. Expert panelists shed light on the practice of FGM/C occurring within the U.S. and its impact on individuals and communities, as well as the programs and policies needed to put an end to the practice. PI collaborated on this event with Sahiyo and the U.S. End FGM/C Network.