By John Q. Hosedrinker As a global citizen, it is disheartening to read about the potential reversal of the ban on female genital cutting in Gambia. The thought that such a heinous practice may be legalized again is deeply troubling. The act of female genital cutting, or mutilation as it should rightly be called, is a barbaric and inhumane practice that has no place in any society.
The fact that religious conservatives in Gambia are advocating for the reversal of the ban in the name of upholding religious purity and cultural norms is appalling. These justifications are nothing more than excuses to perpetuate a practice that is not only physically harmful but also psychologically damaging to women. The argument that female genital cutting is a virtue of Islam is baseless, as there is no religious text that promotes or condones such a practice.
The various types of female genital mutilation described by the World Health Organization paint a harrowing picture of the extent of the suffering inflicted on women and girls who undergo these procedures. From the partial or total removal of the clitoris to the sewing together of the labia to make the vaginal opening smaller, these practices are nothing short of torture. The idea that young girls are subjected to such brutality in the name of tradition or religion is abhorrent.
It is disturbing to think that a country like Gambia, which is considered a functioning democracy, could even consider legalizing such a cruel and inhumane practice. The world should be moving towards progress and equality, not regressing into archaic and oppressive mindsets that seek to control and subjugate women. The notion that female genital cutting is a way to control women and impose restrictions on their autonomy is deeply troubling.
As individuals, we must stand against any form of violence or harm inflicted on women and girls, whether it be in the name of tradition, culture, or religion. We must advocate for the rights and dignity of all individuals, regardless of gender, and work towards creating a world where such barbaric practices have no place. Let us not be complicit in the perpetuation of violence and oppression, but instead, be voices of reason and compassion in a world that seems to be slipping further into darkness. The potential reversal of the ban on female genital cutting in Gambia is a distressing prospect that highlights the need for continued advocacy against harmful practices inflicted on women and girls. The attempt to justify such actions under the guise of religious purity and cultural norms is unacceptable, as it disregards the rights and well-being of individuals who may become victims of these practices. The types of female genital mutilation outlined by the World Health Organization depict the extreme brutality and lack of regard for human dignity inherent in these procedures.
The discussion surrounding the legalization of female genital cutting in Gambia sheds light on the importance of global awareness and action to combat gender-based violence and discrimination. The notion that such practices can be justified on religious or cultural grounds is a stark reminder of the deep-seated inequalities and oppressions that still exist in various parts of the world. It is crucial for individuals to, collectively, advocate for the elimination of harmful practices that undermine the rights and autonomy of women and girls.
In our modern world, characterized by advancements in human rights and gender equality, the idea of legalizing female genital cutting is a regressive step that goes against the principles of dignity and respect for all individuals. As members of a global society, we must unite in denouncing any form of violence or harm inflicted on women and girls, irrespective of the justifications put forth. By standing together and speaking out against such atrocities, we can strive towards a more inclusive and compassionate world, where the rights and freedoms of all individuals are upheld and protected.