Friday, February 6 marks the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) a day to stand with survivors, challenge harmful norms, and accelerate community-led change. It is a moment for clear-eyed compassion: to name the harm, honor resilience, and commit to practical steps that protect girls and restore dignity.
What the day stands for
The day is a global call to action to end a practice that violates human rights and undermines health, education, and opportunity. According to the United Nations, FGM is internationally recognized as a violation of the rights, health, and integrity of women and girls.
Globally, over 230 million women and girls have undergone FGM, with around 4 million at risk each year.
Why this matters now
FGM has no health benefits and causes severe harm. It leads to immediate complications such as pain, bleeding, and infection, and long-term consequences including trauma, reproductive health issues, and increased maternal risks.
Ending FGM is essential to achieving gender equality (SDG 5) and good health and well-being (SDG 3). Progress is possible when communities organize, laws are enforced, and services are accessible.
Survivor voices leading change
Below are anonymous survivor vignettes respectful, realistic examples inspired by the many women and girls who have turned trauma into leadership. These are not claims about specific individuals but illustrations of survivor-led work that powers community change.
Somali-born campaigner, psychotherapist, and survivor of FGM. She co-founded the Daughters of Eve NGO in the UK. 
Kenyan activist and survivor who works with the Amref Health Africa to promote alternative rites of passage. 
Gambian activist and survivor, founder of Safe Hands for Girls, and UN Women Goodwill Ambassador. 
Kenyan activist, survivor, and founder of the Tasaru Ntomonok Initiative, which provides safe houses for girls escaping FGM.
How this connects to The Community Revolution
While The Community Revolution does not run FGM-specific programs, its mission; education, sustainable livelihoods, and grassroots empowerment aligns with the broader fight against harmful practices.
- Education as prevention: Knowledge shifts norms.
- Economic empowerment: Stable incomes reduce vulnerability.
- Community-led activism: Dialogue changes hearts and practices.
- Holistic wellbeing: Survivors thrive when supported across health, education, and opportunity.
Practical steps communities can take
- Center survivors and local leaders in awareness campaigns.
- Invest in girls’ education and safe spaces.
- Train health workers and teachers to respond compassionately.
- Support alternative rites that preserve culture without harm.
- Mobilize men and boys as allies.
Call to action
This International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM is a reminder that change begins with awareness and collective action. If you’re inspired to be part of wider movements for justice, equality, and community empowerment, explore The Community Revolution. Learn how education, sustainability, and grassroots leadership are driving community transformation and discover ways to add your voice to the call for dignity and opportunity for all.