Challenging Silence

Rooted in gender inequality and attempts to control women's sexuality, it's essential that we unite as allies to eradicate this form of gender-based violence. Join us as we delve into 12 actionable steps that everyone can take to be a catalyst for change. To be an ally is not just beneficial, but essential in building a safer, more equitable world for all.

This conversation aims to highlight the importance of acknowledging the resilience and strengths of FGM/C survivors, offering a more empowering narrative beyond the confines of victimization. As we navigate through these different viewpoints, we encourage listeners to consider the complexities of this issue and the potential harm associated with perpetuating a solely victim-oriented narrative.

In this insightful discussion, we analyze the impact of media portrayals on how society views and responds to FGM/C, recognizing the responsibility media holds in disseminating accurate and informed information. The Challenging Silence hosts are joined by Giselle Portenier co-founder and board co-chair of the End FGM Canada network. By examining how FGM/C is depicted, we aim to shed light on the potential biases and consequences that may influence public attitudes and policy decisions.

The Challenging Silence hosts are joined by a survivor of FGM/C to discuss turning their experience of shame and silence into strength and empowerment. The emotional journey of this resilient survivor offers listeners a profound insight into the process of transformation and healing. Through the sharing of personal stories, this podcast aims to break the chains of stigma and inspire others to find strength in vulnerability, fostering a community where resilience becomes a beacon of hope and empowerment for all.

Creativity has long been an influential force in driving social change, from impactful sculptures to meaningful artwork that amplifies important causes. Join us as we discuss how these creative outlets serve as catalysts for fostering dialogue and understanding around FGM/C eradication and survivor support.

In a fictional audio drama, communities challenged by the harmful tradition of FGM/C courageously embark on a transformative journey. This narrative explores the development and acceptance of alternative cultural rituals that replace FGM/C as a rite of passage for women. Through the power of storytelling, the audio drama becomes a catalyst for conversations surrounding the necessity of positive, life-affirming rites of passage, contributing to the preservation of cultural heritage without causing harm.

In predominantly Muslim communities, the erroneous belief that FGM/C is a religious mandate persists, despite Islam's explicit rejection of such harmful practices. The Challenging Silence hosts are joined by Farheen Khan, Imama and Co-Founder of the Women’s Mosque of Canada to discuss the misconception surrounding FGM/C and Islam, emphasizing that no religious scripts are advocating for or prescribing this harmful procedure.

In this episode, we shine a light on the impact of FGM/C within Canadian immigrant communities and the potential support for the practice among some community members. In a country celebrated for its cultural diversity, we delve into the complexities of generational gaps and differences regarding the practice of FGM/C and the challenges associated with addressing it.

In this episode, we aim to understand diverse perspectives both in favour of and against the practice and analyze the cultural, social, and historical factors that shape these attitudes. By examining the complexities of these viewpoints, we hope to shed light on the detailed system of cultural and religious dimensions that contribute to the perpetuation of FGM/C.

WHIWH-CHC is a big believer in empowering communities through education, collaboration and engagement. In this episode of the Challenging Silence podcast, the hosts will be joined by the Director of Research who will be speaking on community work and the importance of collaborating with members of the community and promoting holistic working relationships between organizations and communities.

To learn more about WHIWH, please visit https://www.whiwh.com/