This past July, Sahiyo hosted its eighth annual Activists Retreat virtually, welcoming activists and individuals belonging to FGC-practicing communities to discuss the impact of this harmful practice in a safe and inclusive space. Typically, this program is exclusive to activists and members in the South Asian Bohra community. However, this year’s retreat piloted an inclusive approach, welcoming 14 participants from Asian Pacific Islander (API) and Southwest Asian and North African (SWANA) regions. Each participant enriched the discussions and workshops by sharing their unique experiences in anti-FGC advocacy, benefiting everyone at the retreat.
The three-day virtual retreat included an agenda packed with educational programs, self-care activities, and discussion sessions for activists to reflect on their activities together as a community. Shivangi Misra, a global legal advisor from Equality Now, was a featured speaker during the retreat who presented on the “Legal Landscape of FGM/C in the U.S. Context.” Araya Casey, from the award-winning nonprofit organization, Free2Luv, conducted an art workshop tailored to the unique experiences of activists and survivors of FGC. Activists also participated in an action planning session, which offered an opportunity for activists to discuss short-term and long-term advocacy goals, as well as reflect on recent accomplishments from past retreat participants.
With the virtual retreat successfully concluded, planning is now underway for the in-person, Bohra-focused retreat scheduled for early 2025.
Apply to the 2025 in-person Activists Retreat!
For additional details about the retreat and eligibility, visit the Activists Retreat page or email our Community Engagement Coordinator at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..