NOW - NEW YORK STATE SUPPORT MEMO
A-01790 (Clark, Greene, Scarborough) - Requires an Annual Report on Female Geital Mutilation
March 2005 |
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The New York State Assembly has passed legislation requiring an annual report on female genital mutilation (FGM), thus strengthening the state prohibition on this dangerous and brutal practice. NOW-NYS, Inc. strongly urges the NYS Senate to sponsor and pass similar legislation.
The physical and psychological effects of FGM are numerous and severe. Chronic infections, benign tumors, kidney damage and infertility are only a few of the physical consequences of FGM listed by the human rights organization Amnesty International. FGM induces terror, humiliation and betrayal in the women who experience this violent custom. Although female genital mutilation is supported by certain cultural traditions, it is not required by any of the major religions.
In New York, genital mutilation occurs among immigrant populations from countries where mutilation is still practiced. A required annual report detailing the study and activities established by the NYS prohibition on female genital mutilation would provide more extensive information on the practice and would signify the state’s commitment to ending this abusive and degrading tradition.
The National Organization for Women - New York State, Inc. supports A01790 and calls on the NYS Senate to pass a similar bill to supplement and support the prohibition of female genital mutilation.
Marcia A. Pappas, President, NOW-NYS, Inc.
Lori Gardner, Executive VP
Barbara Kirkpatrick, Legislative Vice President
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