I AM NALA
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37 | The Body Remembers: FGM, Trauma & Truth-Telling | Dr. Leyla Hussein

I AM NALA
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Key Topics Covered

  • Growing up across Somalia, Italy, and Saudi Arabia—and experiencing FGM at age 7
  • The emotional and physical trauma of FGM, including its long-term impact during childbirth
  • Why FGM must be recognized and prosecuted as child abuse, not cultural practice
  • The role of language in policy, aid, and advocacy—reframing FGM, child marriage, and labiaplasty
  • How patriarchy drives all forms of genital control—across race, class, and region
  • Creating survivor-led initiatives and safe spaces for healing
  • Reimagining feminist solidarity and cross-cultural resistance
  • The power of parenting, art, and love in breaking cycles of harm 

Standout Quotes

“What happened to us wasn’t culture. It was child abuse—and the body remembers.”

“We don’t practice violence. So let’s stop calling it a practice.”

“Patriarchy is the root of it all. If we want to end violence, we must start there.”

“Women’s bodies have always made money. That’s why they’ve always been controlled.”

“I am Nala because I choose to be present—with love.”

 

 Resources & Mentions

  • Power of Language Position Paper – by The Girl Generation
  • The Crocodile Documentary – Leyla’s landmark film on FGM in the UK
  • The Girl Generation – Support to the Africa-led Movement to End FGM
  • World Bank and University of Birmingham data on FGM mortality
  • FGM Mortality Study – University of Birmingham, 2023
  • CSW events on FGM and survivor-led care

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Creator & Host: Aya Chebbi

Producer: Omom Mbu-Ogar

Graphic Designer.: Kenechukwu Nwachukwu

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