What are educator perspectives on FGM/C?
We created this educator toolkit after interviewing teachers and counselors to learn more about their experience with and knowledge of FGM/C. While most were familiar with FGM/C as a practice, almost all were surprised to learn that girls in the U.S. are at risk of FGM/C. They also agreed that there is a need to learn more about who is at risk of FGM/C and what needs to be done to implement preventative measures in school.
Some important points brought up by our interviewees that we think you should know:
- Students won't be able to ask for help if they don't know they can go to you for support, specifically for FGM/C.
- Female students may not feel comfortable going to male teachers or counselors with FGM/C related issues, which include the risk of undergoing it and health issues associated with it.
- Communicate with parents in a way where they don't feel attacked or outnumbered.
- Consider adding FGM/C into your health curriculum in some capacity.
Other ways educators can help
- Check if FGM/C is listed in your county/school standards of learning and if it is being taught in any curriculum. If not - consider suggesting adding FGM/C standards of learning to your local department of education.
- Make community connections. Look for trusted, local organizations that can be a resource for FGM/C survivors, if needed. Check out this resource by the Council of Great City Schools for additional tips on community support and more: FGM/C Prevention: A Resource for U.S. Schools
Page last reviewed: May 11, 2023
Page last updated: April 7, 2023
This toolkit was produced by George Washington University with under 2020-V3-GX-K009, awarded by the Office for Victims of Crime, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this presentation are those of the contributors and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the U.S. Department of Justice.