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Filed in Event News by NileSistersAdmin on May 9, 2021

The week of May 9 – 15, 2021, is designated as National Women’s Health Week» (#NWHW) by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office on Women’s Health» (OWH). The weeklong observance highlights the importance of women and girl’s health and wellness. This year’s theme, “Ending the Epidemic and Elevating Women’s Health,” focuses on women’s health amid the COVID-19 pandemic. In alignment with this year’s theme, NSDI raises awareness of FGM/C (female genital mutilation/cutting), an illegal practice that involves partial or total removal of external female genitalia or other injuries to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. Data suggests more than 513,000 girls and women» in the United States have experienced or are at risk of experiencing FGM/C. In California, the most impacted state, more than 57,000 women and girls have experienced or are at risk of experiencing FGM/C.

As we remind women and girls of the importance of making their health a priority and take care of themselves, NSDI is steadfast in raising awareness of gender-based violence and the myriad consequences they inflict on women and girls. The Women’s HEALTH Instagram» provides weekly facts, spotlights on women’s health advocates, and wellness tips as a source of support. If you believe you or someone you know is at immediate risk of FGM/C, contact Child Protective Services» at 1-800-540-4000 or call the Office of Women’s Health Helpline at 1-800-994-9662.

NSDI, with funding from the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Office for Victims of Crime, continues to provide direct service, advocacy, and community education and on FGM/C in San Diego County and the Greater Los Angeles region».