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Simple English definitions for legal terms
female genital mutilation
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A quick definition of female genital mutilation:
Female genital mutilation is a harmful practice where one or more parts of a girl's private parts are cut off. It is mostly done in some African tribes, but it also happens in some immigrant communities in the United States and other Western countries. There are three types of female genital mutilation: sunna, excision, and infibulation. Sunna is when the hood of the clitoris is cut off, excision is when the whole clitoris is cut off, and infibulation is when the clitoris, labia minora, and much of the labia majora are cut off. This practice is illegal in the United States, and no one can use their culture as an excuse to do it.
A more thorough explanation:
Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a harmful practice that involves cutting or removing one or more female sexual organs. It is mostly practiced in certain tribes in Africa, but it also occurs among some immigrant populations in the United States and other Western nations.
There are three types of FGM:
- Sunna: In this type, the hood of the clitoris is cut off.
- Excision: In this type, the entire clitoris is cut off.
- Infibulation: In this type, the clitoris, the labia minora, and much of the labia majora are cut off.
FGM is illegal in the United States, and Congress has specifically prohibited the use of a cultural defense for persons accused of performing the act.
For example, if someone from a tribe that practices FGM is accused of performing the act on a girl in the United States, they cannot use their cultural background as a defense for their actions.
FGM is a harmful practice that violates the human rights of girls and women. It can cause physical and psychological harm, and can even be life-threatening. It is important to raise awareness about FGM and work towards ending this harmful practice.