Society’s Influence on Young Girls: The Rise of Negative Body Image
Harshitha Chaganti
August 2024
Body image issues among teens have become increasingly common in modern society, largely due to media influence and societal expectations regarding physical appearance. Peer pressure, family dynamics, and cultural norms also play a significant role in shaping teens’ perceptions of their bodies. Society often places value on physical appearance, leading teens to feel that their worth is tied to how they look rather than who they are as individuals.
In the UK, the prevalence of appearance-based bullying among 11 to 16-year-olds is alarmingly high, with over half of young people reporting having experienced it. Of these, 40% endure such bullying at least once a week. A significant 54% of young people state that the bullying began by the age of ten. Additionally, those who are overweight or obese are disproportionately targeted, making them more likely to suffer from appearance-based bullying.[3] This highlights the urgent need for interventions to address this issue and create inclusive environments.
One contributing factor to this rise in appearance-based bullying is the pervasive influence of social media. With the increasing use of social platforms among young people, the pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards has intensified, leading to a negative impact on body image and self-esteem.
Dr. Gary Goldfield’s study on social media’s effects on body image shows that participants who limited their social media use had better perception of their overall appearance compared to those who had unrestricted access. However, there was no significant difference in how they perceived their weight after three weeks.[2] Dr. Goldfield’s study adds insight into how excessive screen time, especially on social media platforms, can overwhelm users with images that promote unattainable beauty ideals. As a consequence, this can lead to dissatisfaction with one’s appearance. Thus, limiting social media use potentially stops some of these negative effects.
The impact of social media is not just theoretical; it’s reflected in the lived experiences of young people. Many teens, like Laura, find themselves caught in a cycle of comparison and self-criticism as they navigate the world online.“I would follow all the celebrities my friends did and it started to make me look at them differently. I would look at where they were and what they were wearing and compare it to my life. I started to feel inadequate about the way I dressed and looked.”[4] Laura’s statement highlights how social media shapes teenagers’ self-perception. By comparing themselves to celebrities, teens often feel inadequate about their appearance. This shows the pressure they face to meet unrealistic standards and emphasizes the need to promote self-acceptance.
In addition to the influence of social media, the impact of peer groups on body image and eating behaviors cannot be overlooked. The pressure to conform to the expectations and norms within a peer group can be just as powerful, if not more, in shaping a young person’s self-esteem and behaviors.
Doctor Harris, a medical professional who touched on the topic of peer pressure which is also a form of environmental influence states in a review of the development literature, “Peer groups are one of the main factors that influence the development of disordered eating patterns. Pressure to fit in and meet the group norms is one of the most potent ways that peers can modify personality characteristics.”[1]Dr. Harris’ expertise shows how peer groups strongly influence the development of disordered eating patterns. Pressure to conform to the group norms regarding appearance can lead to unhealthy eating behaviors as individuals strive to fit in. This emphasizes the need to address peer influence in preventing and treating disordered eating.
To foster healthy self-perception, society must value individuals for their inner qualities rather than superficial attributes, promoting inclusivity and diversity. By celebrating diverse body types, cultures, and identities, we can create an environment where people feel accepted for who they are. Educating young people about unrealistic media portrayals and encouraging critical thinking can further support a positive self-image.
References
[1] Alsayed, J. A. (2023, December 15). The Effect of Sociocultural Attitudes on Developing Eating Disorders Among Young Females in Almadinah Almunawarah, Saudi Arabia. NCBI. Retrieved August 31, 2024, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10789473/#REF4
[2] Body image in childhood. (n.d.). Mental Health Foundation. Retrieved August 31, 2024, from https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/articles/body-image-report-executive-summary/body-image-childhood
[3] Reducing social media use significantly improves body image in teens, young adults. (2023, February 23). American Psychological Association. Retrieved August 31, 2024, from https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2023/02/social-media-body-image
[4] Suryajaya, L. (2022, March 31). What Students Are Saying About How Social Media Affects Their Body Image (Published 2022). The New York Times. Retrieved August 31, 2024, from https://www.nytimes.com/2022/03/31/learning/what-students-are-saying-about-how-social-media-affects-their-body-image.html
Shattered Illusions: The Exploitation of Young Women in K-pop
Tanvir Bhamra
August 2024
The global rise of K-pop has captivated millions, turning the genre into a multi-billion dollar industry fueled by the allure of glittering performances, catchy tunes, and meticulously crafted idols. Behind the carefully curated images of perfection, the young women who fuel this global phenomenon frequently endure relentless and unforgiving standards. Young women in K-Pop are often subjected to grueling schedules, strict control over their personal lives, and immense pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards.
As these women are molded into idols, their lives become a constant performance, both on and off stage. The relentless pursuit of perfection means that every aspect of their existence is scrutinized, from their weight and appearance to their behavior and personal relationships, with idols having strict diets and routines. These diets are crafted with the sole purpose of ensuring that idols maintain a particular body type, typically very slim, with little regard for the individual’s nutritional needs or overall health. Such diets can come as one fruit per meal, or even surviving on one ice cube a day.[3] The aftereffects of such lead to these idols facing mental health issues like depression and anxiety, while continuing the façade of happiness and perfection for their fans.
The level of control companies have over idols frequently strips them of their autonomy, leaving them no room to express their true selves. In addition, the harsh competition promotes a society where even a minor mishap can lead to extreme yet contrasting consequences; throughout the many companies of K-pop, members have left their groups for multiple reasons, recently Taeil from NCT left due to sexual crime allegations, with some of his fans still providing their support.[1] While it was appropriate to have him kicked out, Soojin, on the other hand, left the group (G)I-DLE due to alleged bullying accusations that were later proven false due to lack of evidence.[4] Of course, there are many more examples where idols have to undergo these instances, such as having to apologize for smaller things like dating someone, all the meanwhile male idols are given a bit more leeway.
With the boom of K-pop came young teens with dreams of joining the stage, eventually leading companies to debut girls as young as 13. These young hopefuls, eager to achieve stardom, often find themselves thrust into an industry that demands perfection and sacrifice at any cost. These teens experience the same intense aftereffects of stardom as their older counterparts all while navigating the ways of life. The rigorous training process puts tremendous pressure to succeed, often at the expense of their physical and mental well-being.
As more young teens entered the K-pop scene, the pressure to succeed intensified. These aspiring idols faced not only the challenges of fame but also the heavy cost of their training and debut. Despite massive revenue generated by K-pop groups, many idols, both men and women, only see a fraction of the profits or none at all. Due to the concept of “Idol debt”, trainees are seen as an investment to companies, so after one debuts they are responsible for paying the company back with the money they make from performances. This debt includes the cost of their training, housing, food, and even the production of music and music videos, which can run into hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Unless the group is from a “big 4” company (Jyp, YG, Hybe, SM), this often means years of performing without seeing any real financial reward. Many ex-idols have come out to address this issue, one being former “Momoland” member, Daisy, who revealed that she had been in debt of 150k USD (KRW) and was only paid once during her two years as an idol, with her part-time job paying 1.3 times more in comparison.[2]
While providing entertainment and joy to millions, the K-pop industry is built on the exploitation of trainees and idols. Despite their global fame and success, many endure a harsh reality based on intense pressure and lack of autonomy.
References
[1] Clarke-Billings, L. (2024, August 28). K-pop singer leaves boy band over sexual crime accusation. BBC. https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/crlree49382o
[2] Daisy [@daisiesforyu]. (2024, April 4). Unpopular opinion: 17 year olds should not be worrying about debt everyday 😭😭😭😭😭😭[Video]. TikTok. https://www.tiktok.com/@daisiesforyu/video/7354223325779987728?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7258774295826990638
[3] De La Cruz, B. (2023, December 6). Toxic Beauty Standards of Korean Idols | by Baleria De La Cruz | Past/Present/Pop. Medium. Retrieved August 13, 2024, from https://medium.com/past-present-pop/toxic-beauty-standards-of-korean-idols-5bdcf5e4ab83 [4] Sai, A. (2023, October 17). Explained: Former (G)I-DLE member Soojin’s bullying allegations and controversy. sportskeeda. https://www.sportskeeda.com/pop-culture/explained-former-g-i-dle-member-soojin-s-bullying-allegations-controversy
A Natural Process and A Leading Cause of Maternal Mortality Worldwide
Isha Gupta
July 2024
The birth of a baby is often a tremendously joyous occasion as parents welcome a new member to their family. Pregnancy and childbirth are accompanied by drastic changes to physical and mental health. Even after their baby is born, women can experience health effects as their bodies adjust to the postpartum period. A common experience is postpartum bleeding, also referred to as lochia.[1] New mothers experience bleeding from the vagina after childbirth due to shedding and restoration of the womb lining.[2] Experiencing some bleeding is a normal part of the postpartum period. However, excessive blood loss, also referred to as postpartum hemorrhage, is a critical maternal health concern to be aware of, given that it is a leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide.[3]
Women may experience postpartum bleeding regardless of if they had a vaginal delivery or Cesarean section.[2] Postpartum bleeding can last a few weeks.[1] The bleeding could temporarily get heavier and be accompanied by cramps, particularly during breastfeeding, due to the related uterine contractions.[1, 2]
Hospital and postpartum pads help effectively manage heavier bleeding, and women can use menstrual pads as their bleeding subsides.[2] Also, women who gave birth vaginally could potentially consider creating and using padsicles, an innovative term for chilled or frozen sanitary pads. Padsicles could help them reduce pain, swelling, and bruising, while simultaneously, managing bleeding and promoting healing.[4] New mothers are advised to refrain from using tampons and menstrual cups, until they have their postnatal checkup and their healthcare provider approves, in case there are wounds, tears, or cuts around the vagina, and to prevent infection while the body is healing.[1, 2]
Women should promptly seek a medical professional if they lose so much blood that they have to change their pad in less than an hour, and if the bleeding does not subside over time.[2] Also, profuse large blood clots could be a sign of the uterus having difficulty shrinking back to its original size.[2] Additionally, women experiencing postpartum bleeding should seek medical attention if they experience dizziness, irregular heartbeat, or signs of infection such as fever and chills.[2]
Postpartum hemorrhage is characterized by blood loss of 500 mL or more.[3] Postpartum hemorrhage usually occurs within 24 hours after childbirth.[5] However, it can also occur up to 12 weeks after birth.[5] Therefore, it is very important for new mothers to be aware of the signs and monitor their blood loss, in order to prevent adverse outcomes including death. Along with persistent and excessive bleeding, postpartum hemorrhage can be accompanied by symptoms of decreased blood pressure such as blurred vision, dizziness, or feeling faint.[5] Other signs of postpartum hemorrhage include pale skin, nausea, vomiting, and worsening abdominal or pelvic pain.[5] A common method that medical professionals determine the amount of blood loss among new mothers is by weighing their blood-soaked pads.[5] Additional diagnostic tests for postpartum hemorrhage include blood tests to measure red blood cells and clotting factors as well as ultrasounds of the uterus and related organs.[5]
One of the most common causes of postpartum hemorrhage is a soft and weak uterus, referred to as uterine atony.[5] Another common cause is uterine trauma, which can occur due to damage caused to the uterus, cervix, vagina, or perineum during childbirth.[5] The use of medical tools such as forceps and vacuum extraction during childbirth can increase women’s risk of uterine trauma.[5] Postpartum hemorrhage can also occur when the entire placenta does not separate from the wall of the uterus, referred to as retained placental tissue.[5]In addition, postpartum hemorrhage can occur in women who have coagulation disorders or conditions like eclampsia, because they can interfere with their body’s clotting ability.[5] Diverse factors can influence the risk of postpartum hemorrhage, including having more than one baby simultaneously, giving birth to a large baby, prolonged labor, and older maternal age.[5]
There are diverse ways postpartum hemorrhage could be treated. Each woman should be given a personalized treatment plan based on her personal root cause and the particular amount of blood she has lost. For instance, if postpartum hemorrhage is caused by uterine atony, then specific medications such as oxytocin or prostaglandins like misoprostol could help induce contractions.[5] Other ways postpartum hemorrhage is treated include uterine massages to help uterine muscles contract, removing retained placental tissue, and repairing tears or lacerations on the vagina, cervix, or uterus.[5] Additionally, the uterus could be packed with sterile gauze.[5] Moreover, a balloon could be utilized to put pressure on uterine walls.[5]In rare cases, a surgeon might need to make an incision in a woman’s abdomen to effectively determine the source of her postpartum hemorrhage, known as laparotomy, or surgically remove her womb, known as hysterectomy.[5] Furthermore, women suffering from postpartum hemorrhage may need blood transfusions to replenish the blood lost.[5]
Postpartum hemorrhage could be a painful and even traumatic experience for new mothers and it could be a stressful experience for their loved ones.[3] Furthermore, in many communities around the world, bleeding during and after childbirth is considered impure and to be caused by evil spirits, similar to stigmas surrounding menstrual bleeding.[3] Negative socio-cultural perceptions and taboos could influence delays in seeking medical attention, especially since women and their community members may end up ignoring excessive blood loss until new mothers become unconscious.[3] Combating misinformation and raising awareness of both natural postpartum bleeding and postpartum hemorrhage is crucial for improving new mothers’ health and well-being. Early detection and treatment of postpartum hemorrhage helps lead to healthier outcomes and save women’s lives.[5]
Postpartum bleeding is a common experience among new mothers. Nevertheless, it is essential to effectively understand and distinguish normal postpartum blood loss and postpartum hemorrhage.[6]It is important for women to feel safe and comfortable sharing concerns about their health after childbirth so that serious maternal health concerns like postpartum hemorrhage can be addressed efficiently.
References
[1] National Health Service. (2024, April 25). Your body after the birth. National Health Service. https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/labour-and-birth/after-the-birth/your-body/
[2] Watson, S. (2018, July 23). Is Postpartum Bleeding Normal?. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/is-postpartum-bleeding-normal
[3] Akter, S., Forbes, G., Vazquez Corona, M., Miller, S., Althabe, F., Coomarasamy, A., Gallos, I. D., Oladapo, O. T., Vogel, J. P., Lorencatto, F., & Bohren, M. A. (2023). Perceptions and experiences of the prevention, detection, and management of postpartum haemorrhage: a qualitative evidence synthesis. The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 11(11), CD013795. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD013795.pub2
[4] Higuera, V. (2019, December 18). Padsicles: How to Make Them, How To Use Them, Why We Love Them. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/padsicles
[6] Fletcher, S., Grotegut, C. A., & James, A. H. (2012). Lochia patterns among normal women: a systematic review. Journal of women’s health (2002), 21(12), 1290–1294. https://doi.org/10.1089/jwh.2012.3668
How Federal Pell Grants for Incarcerated Women Could Improve Quality of Life and Change the Fabric of Education in the U.S.
Gabriela Castro April 2024
There is no question that going to college affects life outcomes. The most apparent effect is that higher education is strongly correlated with higher income.[31] The benefits aren’t limited to finances. According to one study, college completion is associated with less health issues and greater longevity across all racial and ethnic identities.[42] Furthermore, public resources like Federal Pell Grants help reduce the cost of going to college for those who qualify based on financial need. More specifically, it helps students who are from lower income brackets receive more robust financial aid for college through the program.
Prior to 2020, Federal Pell Grants were not available to people in incarceration.[26] This was due to the 1994 Crime Bill which prohibited people serving prison sentences from accessing federal aid.[23] The sole exception for this law was made in 2015 by the Department of Education, which implemented the Second Chance Pell Experimental Sites Initiative (SCP), which essentially tested using federal financial aid at state and federal prisons and invited specific colleges to participate in 2016.[36]
That is until a December 2020 Supreme Court decision in which it was decided that incarcerated individuals were eligible for the Pell Grant, which went into effect in July 2021.[13] The law was further amended in 2022 when legislators expanded Pell Grant eligibility to include prison education programs (PEP), effective July 2023.[4] With the option to fund college education through federal resources now available to them, Pell Grants can change the lives of incarcerated women across the U.S. through educational attainment, higher income potential, better physical and mental health, reduce unemployment rates, lower recidivism rates, and better generational outcomes.
In the U.S., college average annual tuition costs $10,662 for public in-state institutions, $23,630 for public out-of-state colleges, and $42,162 for private colleges.[21] These costs grow and will continue to grow every year and its impact shows. By the end of 2023, the average college loan debt was $37,090 in total per borrower.[18] The rising cost can discourage people from finishing their degrees. It is estimated that 32.9% of students dropped out of college in 2023.[19] When a 2022 survey studied why, 59% of students who dropped out before COVID and 52% of students who dropped out during COVID cited the cost of attending college as a critical reason for dropping out.[37] This is where the Pell Grant makes a difference. For the 2023-2024 award year, eligible Pell Grant recipients can receive as much as $7,395 from the program each year,[17] and it can be renewed for up to 6 years.[3] Not only does the Pell Grant make a direct financial impact, but students who receive it can be considered for other forms of financial aid from their college or universities such as scholarships simply because eligibility for Pell Grants can be used as an indicator of financial need.
Current Educational Attainment Trends Among Incarcerated Women
Incarcerated people, and more specifically, incarcerated women, are a unique demographic when we consider college attendance and graduation. In 2021, the US Census Bureau found that 37.9% of U.S. adults over 25 years old held a degree.[34] By comparison, a 2016 study found that 5.1% of incarcerated women held a bachelor’s degree while 11% had completed some college.[27]
While the proportion of incarcerated women who have any college experience or completed a degree is higher than the proportion of incarcerated men who have at least some college experience or earned a degree, incarcerated men are twice as likely to have entered prison with a GED than women.[27] Furthermore, a 2019 study found that while about 1 in 4 people who are incarcerated pursue education while in prison, only 7% complete a certificate and 2% complete an associate’s degree during their sentence.[28]
When we consider that the average prison inmate with a job working a for state-owned businesses earn between 33 cents and $1.41 per hour[33] and people with criminal records are ineligible for many scholarships, it is no wonder many incarcerated people can not afford a college education and are therefore dependent on publicly subsidized education in order to further their education.
The data shows that when academic and vocational classes are available in prisons, incarcerated women use education to their advantage. After the implementation of the Second Chance Pell Program (SCP), it was found that 15% of incarcerated women were enrolled in a college program while 7% earned a credential in 2021.[6] Researchers presume that the reason women appear to earn credentials at half of their enrollment rates has to do with disruptions related to the COVID-19 pandemic and that women are completing their credentials after being released, which research is not keen to keep track of once they have served their sentences.[6]
A follow-up report to these findings found that between 2021 and 2022, incarcerated women made up 13% of incarcerated individuals enrolled in SCP and 11% of those who completed credentials.[36] This disparity could be due to the type of credentials being offered by a correctional facility (i.e. whether it be a certificate or a bachelor’s degree) since certain credentials may take more time to complete than others.[36] Regardless, incarcerated women make up a larger proportion of the incarcerated population enrolled in Federal Pell Grant-sponsored educational programs than they make up the incarcerated population to begin with.[39]
College Pell Grants Can Affect Social Outcomes for Incarcerated Women
If Pell Grants persist in their availability to incarcerated populations, they could change socioeconomic outcomes immensely for formerly incarcerated women. Not only could Pell Grants improve educational attainment, and consequently, income among incarcerated women,[31] but it could improve health and personal well-being, employment outcomes, recidivism rates, and break generational cycles.
Health and Well-being
The importance of education on health for incarcerated women is crucial to address. Approximately 80% of women in prison have a diagnosed psychological issue.[1] Women in prison are five times more likely to experience mental health difficulties than women in the general population.[38] Adults who do not have higher education are more likely to smoke and have an unhealthy diet, and be sedentary than those who do have higher education.[10][22][30][35] Living an inactive lifestyle is tied to poorer mental health, so it is in the best interest of incarcerated women to be educated.[14] This way, they are more informed about lifestyle habits that hinder their health and can consciously improve their well-being.
Employment Rates
In 2008, it was estimated that 43.6% of formerly incarcerated black women and 23.3% of formerly incarcerated white women were unemployed.[16] To put this into perspective, this was during the 2008 Great Recession, where 11.7% of women, including 15.3% of black women and 11.1% of white women were unemployed in the general U.S. population.[41] This highlights not only economic disparities, but racial disparities among the formerly incarcerated. While we are not living in the same recession, life post-COVID has left its mark across many fields as many jobs have transitioned between in-person to remote and hybrid models. Additionally, COVID-19 has not prevented growing education expectations in labor-market demands. In fact, it is estimated that 70% of jobs will require college education by 2027.[9] Although many incarcerated women may not complete their degrees while in prison, they can still gain valuable benefits from their college experience, including improved employment opportunities and higher wages compared to peers without any college experience.
Recidivism Rates
It is estimated that 50% of formerly incarcerated women recidivate.[12] Research shows that higher education reduces recidivism rates[7]–one study found that prison education programs reduce recidivism rates by as much as 43%.[11][15] This is because education can give inmates the social facilities to work cooperatively with others, giving them the ability to interact prosocially in other settings and thus, reduce likelihood to offend again.[8][15] The changes in offending rates and positive social change extend beyond just incarcerated women.
Breaking Generational Curses
An analysis by the Prison Policy Initiative found that 72% of women who are incarcerated earned below the poverty line before the beginning of their sentences.[32] It should be noted that more than half of incarcerated women are parents.[24] A mother’s level of education is the strongest predictor of cognitive development in children and is correlated with their likelihood of attaining a college education.[20][2] Given that education is closely tied with income level, incarcerated women who have children and earn college degrees may improve the likelihood that their children will go to college and subsequently also earn more.[5][31] Lastly, Pell Grants for incarcerated women could serve as a protective factor by reducing the likelihood that their children may offend.[15]
Future Considerations
For all the reasons mentioned previously, it is clear that Federal Pell Grants stand to benefit one of the most marginalized groups in the U.S. Still, there is room for improvement.
To demonstrate how, some minority groups are underrepresented amongst people in incarceration who were enrolled in Pell Grant-sponsored educational programs, and it can vary based on gender. Hispanic women make up 19% of the prison population, but only 6% of those who accessed education programs in prison with Pell Grants between 2021-2022.[36] This disparity is similar for incarcerated Hispanic men.[36] Incarcerated African-American women attend Pell Grant programs at a slightly higher rate than the proportion of the incarcerated women population that they make up, while their male counterparts are underrepresented in Pell Grant educational programs by 6%.[36] Native American women are slightly underrepresented in these programs by 1%.[36] Incarcerated white women on the other hand, are overrepresented in Pell Grant programs by 18%.[36]
In short, efforts to promote college education in prisons that incarcerate women need to address racial equity by encouraging women of color–especially Hispanic women–to access resources such as Federal Pell Grants to fund their education. If not, these efforts will only uphold underrepresentation and further marginalization.
This is critical because Hispanic women are the most disenfranchised by the gender wage gap.[40] In 2021, when controlling for similar positions, a report found that Hispanic women and Native American women both make 58 cents relative to every dollar non-Hispanic white men make.[40] Black women make 63 cents per dollar a non-Hispanic white man makes.[40] White women make 79 cents relative to every dollar non-Hispanic white men make.[40] There are many factors which experts contend contribute to the gender pay gap, but encouraging women–especially women of color–to advocate for themselves and seek the means for a higher income by continuing with their education is a good place to start. It’s worth noting that furthering education beyond a high school diploma helps to close this wage gap.[40]
Yet another issue to be addressed is prejudiced hiring practices. It is well-documented that racial and ethnic minorities face discriminatory hiring practices. In one experiment, it was found that employers were more likely to call back or offer work positions to non-Hispanic white male job applicants with criminal records than African-American or Hispanic male applicants who did not have criminal records.[29] In another study, formerly incarcerated Latinas and African-American women were less likely to get a positive response from an employer when applying to a job than formerly incarcerated white women.[25] The inequitable hardship that formerly incarcerated racial minority women in particular face when it comes to job seeking cannot be understated. Education–however helpful on its own–is not enough to change systemic issues stemming from internal biases and inadequate effort towards restorative justice.
In summary, Federal Pell Grants recently permitted for people in incarceration can offer higher education which would increase income to formerly incarcerated women. Additionally, it could enhance physical and psychosocial health outcomes. Given that education could also improve employment, these factors in combination help to lower recidivism rates among those who complete their academic credentials. This has the double benefit of not only rectifying the lives of formerly incarcerated women, but it also has the potential to break harmful generational cycles such as poverty and involvement in criminal behavior in their kids’ lifetimes. The barriers to these benefits is the inequitable utilization of Pell Grants across racial minority groups as well as implicit hiring biases against minorities and more overt biases against those with criminal records. Federal Pell Grants, while monumental in their impact, are just a preliminary solution in closing the gaps between incarcerated women and a life of liberty and justice for all.
References
[1] “10 Things to know about women in prison.” (2021). World Health Organization . www.euro.who.int/en/health-topics/health-determinants/prisons-and-health/focus-areas/womens-health/10-things-to-know-about-women-in-prison
[2] Augustine, J. M. (2017). Increased educational attainment among U.S. mothers and their children’s academic expectations. Research in Social Stratification and Mobility, 52, 15–25. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rssm.2017.08.001
[7] Choate, B. R., & Normore, A. H. (2013). Leadership’s role in reducing jail violence and recidivism. In A. H. Normore & N. Erbe (Eds.), Advances in Educational Administration (Vol. 20, pp. 163–180). Emerald Group Publishing Limited. https://doi.org/10.1108/S1479-3660(2013)0000020009
[8] Cobbina, J. E. (2010). Reintegration success and failure: Factors impacting reintegration among incarcerated and formerly incarcerated women. Journal of Offender Rehabilitation, 49(3), 210–232. https://doi.org/10.1080/10509671003666602
How the First Woman Elected as Mexico’s President May Change the Economic Future for Mexican Women
Gabriela Castro June 2024
Mexico held its general election on June 2nd, 2024.[4] The election included voting for the next candidate to hold office for the six-year presidential term following the term of current Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO for short).[4] It was announced that Gloria Sheinbaum of Mexico’s left-wing National Regeneration Movement (Movimiento Regeneración Nacional or MORENA in Spanish) political party won in a landslide, holding about 59.5% of citizens’ votes.[10][1]
In addition to being the first woman elected as Mexico’s president, Sheinbaum holds the highest number of votes in the country’s presidential election history (35.9 million), exceeding current President Obrador’s record of 30.1 million votes in 2018.[1]
Sheinbaum has built her campaign on a myriad of pledges which she has outlined in her agenda,“100 Steps for Transformation.”[13] Many of these pledges are a continuation of AMLO’s political focus, but Sheinbaum is also notably focused on furthering social and economic progress not attributable to her predecessor.[8][13] What exactly are the specifics of these policy changes and how could they change the status quo and economic stability for women?
During his presidency, AMLO has set forth policies to increase minimum wage.[15] He established a minimum wage of 88 pesos (5 US dollars) per day in 2018 with a goal of reaching a minimum wage of 15 USD by the end of his term in 2024.[15] As of 2024, the general minimum wage in Mexico is 248.93 pesos per day (13.48 US dollars) and the minimum wage in the nation’s northern border is 375 pesos per day (20.31 US dollars).[14][5]
Sheinbaum has outlined plans to continue to raise the minimum wage by 11% annually during her term as president.[13] This means that by 2030, Mexico’s general minimum wage would increase to 465.60 pesos per day and 701.41 pesos per day in Mexico’s northern border region.[13][14] This is the equivalent of earning $25.22 and $37.99 daily in the U.S. today.[5]
Raising the minimum wage is critical for Mexico’s “informal workers,” which are employees who work jobs that do not require many skills–such as formal education or extensive training–and are not taxed or subject to government supervision.[12] In essence, this is akin to freelance work, only it is crucial for many households.[2][6]
Given what is known about the nature of informal work, increasing the minimum wage during Sheinbaum’s term would benefit women significantly. Informal work is historically pervasive among women in Mexico.[2] Recently, it was estimated that 56% of women are informal workers.[6] Additionally, informal work is less likely to be voluntary for women than men.[2] This is due to the fact that cutbacks in public sector jobs and lower wages for men force women–particularly those who are older or less educated–into the informal workforce in an effort to supplement and diversify family income.[2] Not only is involuntary work underpaid, but women who are either self-employed and work independently or self-employed while employing other workers still earn considerably less wages than women who are formally employed.[2] The higher market value set on labor due to an increased minimum wage can have the effect of not only increasing income for women who work informally, but also improving standards for those who work formally and women who are self-employed.
Formalizing Informal Labor
On top of informal workers not having labor rights or protection, they also are often not granted social security, pension plans, insurance, access to health care, or paid time off.[12] Informal workers make up 54.5% of Mexico’s workforce.[6] While experts have recommended changing this to allow for growth, there has been a dearth of efforts to actually formalize labor.[7]
Sheinbaum plans to change this by formalizing informal work.[3] This means expanding social security so that it is accessible to informal workers, which can incentivize informal workers to apply to roles which may grant them many benefits which were previously only available to those who work in formal roles.[3] Given that women are the most precarious members of the informal workforce, having social benefits improves prospects in regards to meeting their personal needs.[2]
Offering Pensions
Many older Mexicans cannot retire because they lack retirement savings.[12] Sheinbaum intends to mitigate the issues associated with retirement by providing a partial pension to women ages 60 to 64, equivalent to half of that administered to those 65 and older.[9] This helps assuage financial burden and stress for women who otherwise would be dependent on their spouse, children, or extended family to assist them in older age as their needs may grow. Needless to say, bolstering retirement for women through pensions is one example of the many social benefits that can transform the lives of women at different stages of life.
Takeaways
Sheinbaum trailblazed her way to becoming the first woman elected as president in Mexico’s 200 year history.[11] Multiple policy focuses in her strategic policy agenda, “100 Steps for Transformation,” can advance the way women grow economically and socially.[13] By increasing minimum wage, formalizing freelance work, and expanding pensions, Sheinbaum has the potential to increase standard of living for informal working women, formally working women, self-employed women, and older women who are susceptible to financial hardship. While promising, Sheinbaum’s plan should be enacted as soon as possible to realize the economic freedom Sheinbaum seeks to cultivate for women from all walks of life.
References
[1] Arroyo, L. (2024, June 3). Datos | Sheinbaum, la presidenta más votada en la historia reciente de México. El País México. https://elpais.com/mexico/elecciones-mexicanas/2024-06-03/datos-sheinbaum-la-presidenta-mas-votada-en-la-historia-de-mexico.html
[2] Biles, J. J. (2008). Informal Work and Livelihoods in Mexico: Getting By or Getting Ahead?nformal Work and Livelihoods in Mexico: Getting By or Getting Ahead?∗. The Professional Geographer, 60(4), 541–555. https://doi.org/10.1080/00330120802288743
[3] Dong, Wenchao. (2024, June 14). Top Issues on New President of Mexico’s Labor and Employment Agenda. HRPolicy. https://www.hrpolicy.org/insight-and-research/resources/2024/hr_workforce/public/06/top-issues-on-new-president-of-mexico%e2%80%99s-labor-and/
[4] Elección Federal 2024. (2024). Instituto Nacional Electoral. https://ine.mx/voto-y-elecciones/elecciones-2024/eleccion-federal-2024/
[5] Guagenti, C. (2024, June 14). MXN to USD: Convert Mexican Peso To United States Dollar. Forbes Advisor. https://www.forbes.com/advisor/money-transfer/currency-converter/mxn-usd/
[6] INDICADORES DE OCUPACIÓN Y EMPLEO (206/24). (2024). National Institute of Statistics and Geography. https://www.inegi.org.mx/contenidos/saladeprensa/boletines/2024/IOE/IOE2024_03.pdf
[7] Informal employment in Mexico: Current situation, policies and challenges. (n.d.). International Labor Organization.
[8] Ioanes, E. (2024, June 2). What to know about Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico’s next president. Vox. https://www.vox.com/politics/353131/claudia-sheinbaum-amlo-lopez-obrador-mexico-elections-politics-morena-pri-pan
[9] Motwani, A. (2024, June 3). Claudia Sheinbaum’s Vision for the Future of Work in Mexico. Mexico Business. https://mexicobusiness.news/talent/news/claudia-sheinbaums-vision-future-work-mexico
[10] NEWS WIRES. (2024, June 3). Ruling leftist party candidate Sheinbaum elected Mexico’s first female president. France 24. https://www.france24.com/en/americas/20240603-sheinbaum-set-to-win-mexico-election-becoming-first-female-president
[11] Rivers, M. (2024, June 3). “Presidenta! Presidenta!” chants fill victory party as 1st female president elected: ANALYSIS. ABC News. https://abcnews.go.com/International/presidenta-presidenta-chants-fill-victory-party-1st-female/story?id=110772353
[12] Rodriguez Diaz, A. (2023, February 21). How Labor Informality in Mexico Hinders Socioeconomic Progress. HU Econ Review. https://www.economicsreview.org/post/how-labor-informality-in-mexico-hinders-socioeconomic-progress
[13] Sheinbaum proposes double-digit minimum wage increases through 2030. (2024, June 5). América Economía. http://www.americaeconomia.com/en/politics/sheinbaum-proposes-double-digit-minimum-wage-increases-through-2030
[14] Suárez, K. (2023, December 1). El salario mínimo en México aumentará un 20% en 2024. El País México. https://elpais.com/mexico/2023-12-01/el-salario-minimo-en-mexico-aumentara-un-20-en-2024.html
[15] White, K. (2024, January 8). Mexico increases minimum wage by 20% in 2024. https://info.siteselectiongroup.com/blog/mexico-increases-minimum-wage-by-20-in-2024
In recent years, shows with female leads have grown popular, often aiming to showcase strong, powerful women. Essentially attempting to erase any femininity from shows, an example being Fate: The Winx Saga; a teen series adapted from a popular kids animation, Winx Club, which originally depicted strong women who embraced their femininity as guardians of their fairy world, whereas the live-action adaption took a different turn, scrapping most of its femininity and original message. On the other hand, shows like Bridgerton started to show women not only in all shapes and sizes but personalities as well. Whether they were more or less feminine, they still had their own strengths and weaknesses.
With lead women like Daphne Bridgerton and Kate Sharma, it is clearly shown that both women are capable of being robust, while also embracing their femininity. Daphne, with her grace and determination, and Kate, with her boldness and intelligence, both highlight the multifaceted nature of female strength.
This approach contrasts with shows such as Fate: The Winx Saga where the emphasis seems to have shifted from the colorful, vibrant representation of femininity which was found in the original series. “But by rejecting the aesthetic and vibe of its source material entirely for a pale imitation of other YA [Young Adult] properties, “Fate: The Winx Saga” might just end up slipping through the cracks[2].”The live adaptation has been heavily criticized for its opposite representation, as shown by the review provided. It emphasizes a darker, more somber tone, which some argue: strips away what made the original show appealing to children.
However, Bridgerton still highlights the rebellious nature of teens such as Eloise Bridgerton. Eloise, well known for her sharp wit and yearning for independence, challenges the societal expectations of the Regency era and its standards for women. She seeks intellectual fulfillment, often questioning the need for marriage; in her case, Eloise finds safety in her femininity after the fallout with Penelope. In other words, Bridgerton portrays that not all femininity is true to the person.
Although Penelope Featherington is the same age and shares similar ideologies as Eloise, she uses her femininity to embrace her growth as a woman instead of wallowing in her mother’s tastes. Her ability to embrace her femininity on her own terms emphasizes her strength and resilience in the world of Regency London.
Bridgerton contributes to a richer, more inclusive representation of women on screen, encouraging viewers to appreciate the many forms of female strength. This trend applies to shows like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, featuring a woman thriving in a male-dominated field while staying true to her identity, and My Lady Jane, featuring strong female characters navigating romance and societal expectations with wit and resilience in a historical fantasy setting. Overall, Bridgerton successfully balances the portrayal of women by acknowledging their vulnerabilities and showcasing their growth and resilience throughout their stories.
References
[1] Burgess, G., & Glynn, M. (Executive Producers). (2024). My Lady Jane [TV series]. Prime Video.
[2] Framke, C. (2021, January 22). Fate: The Winx Saga Review: Netflix’s Winx Club Adaptation Fizzles. Variety. Retrieved July 16, 2024, from https://variety.com/2021/tv/reviews/fate-the-winx-saga-netflix-review-1234889555/
[3] Palladino, D., Sherman-Palladino, A., Lawrence, S. R., Gilbert, D., & Shapiro, M. (Executive Producers). (2017). The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel [TV series]. Prime Video.
[4] Quinn, J. (2021). Bridgerton. Avon Books
[5] Sampson, E. (Executive Producer). (2021). Fate: the Winx saga [TV series]. Netflix.
Access to education is a basic human right that every woman should have access to. Despite clear evidence showing how important girls’ education is for progress and growth, differences between boys’ and girls’ education continue to exist and girls are still being denied their right to a quality education. There is still a lot of work to be done globally to achieve equal education for all despite the barriers that exist among countries and communities. While countries have pledged to provide education for every child, less than half of all countries worldwide have achieved gender equality in primary education. [1]
According to UNICEF, globally over 129 million girls are not attending school. This translates to 32 million girls in primary school, 30 million in lower-secondary, and 67 million in upper secondary not receiving education. Girls in conflict-affected countries are over twice as likely to be out of school compared to those in peaceful countries. Only 49% of countries have gender parity in primary education. This number drops to 42% for lower-secondary and 24% for upper-secondary education. [1] Furthermore, as of 2024, Afghanistan is the only country where women and girls face restrictions on education. They are banned from education beyond primary school (sixth grade). It is reported that this ban impacts over one million girls in Afghanistan. [2]
Obstacles that exacerbate the education gap between girls and boys
Various obstacles and barriers prevent girls from getting an education or a proper one, and these challenges differ from one country and community to another. Gender stereotypes that confine women to gender-normative family roles create significant barriers to girls getting a good education. Society often expects girls to take on domestic duties such as cooking and cleaning, assuming they will rely on men financially. This stereotype also means boys’ education is often seen as more important because they’re expected to be the sole earners for the household. [3, 4]
Laws and policies in many countries also hinder girls’ education rights. Even rules that seem fair often end up excluding girls because of socially adopted norms. For example, some laws allow child marriages or state that pregnant girls cannot attend school. This restricts girls’ freedom and keeps them from getting an education. Additionally, those who marry at a young age are more likely to drop out of school or complete fewer years of education. According to a 2017 report, more than 41,000 girls are married each day. To put this into perspective, ending child marriage could lead to attaining higher education, earning high wages, and can generate more than 500 billion in benefits each year. [3, 4]
Furthermore, financial problems and poverty keep girls from going to school. Poor families often cannot pay for things like school fees or uniforms. Parents might also prioritize boys’ education, thinking it will give them better jobs. When schools are far away from home, especially in rural areas, girls have an even harder time attending. They might have to do household chores like getting water or childcare, which can keep them out of school. [3, 4]
Violence plays a big role in girls not completing their education. In countries affected by conflict, fragility, and violence, the education gap is much wider. Girls in these countries are 2.5 times more likely to be out of school than boys. At the secondary education level, girls are 90% more likely to be out of school compared to those in more stable countries. In addition, data shows that girls face the risk of being sexually assaulted when just walking to school. What’s more troubling, pregnancies resulting from assault or violence compound this problem. Unfortunately, pregnant girls often face stigma and discrimination causing many girls to drop out of school and not return. [3, 4]
What does this all mean?
Quality education is a necessity that fosters numerous benefits not just for girls but for their families and communities. As a society, we must invest in girls’ education because women help lift economies in addition to promoting gender equality and building healthier communities. [5] Denying girls and vulnerable groups’ education is a severe form of discrimination that limits an individual’s ability to succeed and build prosperity for entire countries.
Malala Fund, Too Young to Wed, Mercy Beyond Borders, and WomenOne are just a few of countless nonprofit organizations, support programs, and charities that work to promote girls’ education, help low-income families cover schooling costs, and provide girls the tools they need to take control of their lives.
We must use our voices to promote education and eliminate the continuing disparities that prevent universal access to education such as systemic inequalities, oppression, and discrimination. Education is vital for learning about the world we live in and every effort should be made to empower girls to write their own stories rather than having others write them for them.
[2] Afghanistan’s school year starts without more than 1 million girls barred from education by Taliban. (2024, March 20). AP News. https://apnews.com/article/afghanistan-school-year-girl education-ban-df1a1d722353db006e1a2650a1e12c36.
[3] TheirWorld. (2017, July 26). Why girls around the world are still denied an equal chance of education. Theirworld. https://theirworld.org/news/why-girls-are-still-denied-equal-chance-of education/.
The Most Underrated Woman Scientist in Germany: The Legacy of Maria Goeppert Mayer
Unnati Shekhar July 2024
Max Planck and Albert Einstein are two of the most prominent names in the pantheon of German great scientists. But Maria Goeppert Mayer is a name that ought to be far more well-known. Mayer was a theoretical physicist who won a Nobel Prize for her innovative work, yet women’s contributions to science are sometimes overlooked in favour of their male peers. Nonetheless, her contributions to the nuclear shell model have had a significant influence on our comprehension of nuclear physics and atomic structure.
On June 28, 1906, Maria Goeppert Mayer was born in Kattowitz, which was then a part of Germany (now Katowice, Poland). Her father was a pediatrics professor, so she grew up surrounded by academics and had a strong regard for learning early on. Maria’s early affinity for science and maths led her to study physics at the University of Göttingen, where she was taught by Nobel laureate Max Born to finish her Ph.D.
Goeppert Mayer had several challenges because of her gender, even though she was clearly talented and passionate. It was quite uncommon for women to have academic positions in the sciences at that time. She relocated to the US after marrying American scientist Joseph Mayer, but despite her credentials, she had trouble getting hired as a salaried scholar. She spent several years teaching part-time or as a volunteer at a number of universities, including Columbia and Johns Hopkins.
The most important contributions to physics were made by Goeppert Mayer while she was an unpaid employee at the University of Chicago. She created the nuclear shell model in 1948, which clarifies why specific nucleon counts—the protons and neutrons that make up an atomic nucleus—lead to especially stable configurations. The idea of “magic numbers,” or particular numbers of nucleons that form whole shells within the nucleus and contribute to atomic stability, was first proposed by this model. Her study was a significant advancement in the field of nuclear physics and offered a clear explanation for the patterns in nuclear stability that had been discovered.
At first, Goeppert Mayer’s theory was viewed with suspicion. The notion that nucleons may form shells akin to atoms’ electron shells was groundbreaking and contradicted accepted nuclear models. Nonetheless, the scientific world quickly came to accept her predictions due to their accuracy. She shared the 1963 Nobel Prize in Physics with J. Hans D. Jensen, who had created a comparable model on his own. She became the second woman, after Marie Curie, to be awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics as a result of this acknowledgment.
Even with her impressive accomplishments, Maria Goeppert Mayer’s impact is not widely recognized by the general public. There are multiple factors that contribute to this lack of clarity. Initially, her contributions to theoretical physics are groundbreaking, but they are intricate and not as easily understandable to the general public as the work of other scientists from the same time period. Also, the gender prejudices during that era frequently led to her successes being minimized or credited to her male peers. In addition, Goeppert Mayer had a humble and understated demeanor, and she did not actively pursue attention, opting instead to allow her research to shine on its own. This modesty, though commendable, also added to her lack of recognition in a field where promoting oneself can boost one’s reputation.
Recently, there has been an increasing effort to acknowledge the impact of women in the field of science, with Maria Goeppert Mayer’s narrative being emphasized more as a testament to determination and intelligence despite facing challenges. Her legacy proves that genuine scientific brilliance is not limited by gender and that women scientists’ contributions should be acknowledged equally.By exploring and honoring the achievements of trailblazers such as Maria Goeppert Mayer, we not only pay tribute to their legacy but also motivate upcoming scientists, regardless of gender, to follow their dreams with determination and perseverance.
The life and work of Maria Goeppert Mayer serve as a reminder that the journey to scientific breakthroughs is frequently difficult, yet it is these obstacles that enhance the significance of the achievements. She serves as a source of motivation, not only for females in the science field, but also for individuals willing to challenge the limits of human understanding.
The Feminism Effect: How The Art Movement Underscores The Power of Women
Yashaswini Repaka August 2024
Art speaks volumes. It can encompass many aspects of our daily lives, and urge us to understand how powerful our emotions are through variation. Like the power of a simple brush stroke, feminism throughout modern works encompasses the power of representation, power dynamics, and the identity of the female community. Advocating for the empowerment of women and marginalized groups, feminist art brings together a vibrant community and unites women in girlhood. The feminist movement has significantly shaped contemporary art and continues to impact the art field today, empowering women in every aspect of life.
Emerging in the late 1960’s and 70’s, the feminist art movement was a response to a predominantly male-centric art world. It sought to address issues of gender equality and challenge traditional notions of art. As once stated by female artist Suzanne Lacy, “…the goal of Feminist Art was to “influence cultural attitudes and transform stereotypes.”[1]
Examples of more renowned female artists include Judy Chicago and Miriam Schapiro, spotlighted in the following:
Inspired by the women’s movement and rebelling against the male-dominated scene of their art world, many renowned paintings such as the Dinner Party [1979] which Chicago described as “a reinterpretation of The Last Supper from the point of view of women, who, throughout history, have prepared the meals and set the table” [4]. The Dinner Party celebrated the forgotten achievements of women throughout history. The main focus of the piece is a table with symbolic places for thirty-nine “guests of honor.” Each place setting describes each woman’s achievement. Incorporating elements of a social event with the status and appearance of a banquet, Chicago elevates her guests to the role of heroes, a traditionally male characteristic.
Another renowned piece by Schapiro, DollHouse [1972], which was intended to be a statement on the lives of women and the fact that “there is more to be discovered beyond the female stereotype and opportunities for her to choose to be sexual or glamorous” [5]. The Dollhouse describes how a woman is portrayed on the outside, but if someone got to know them a little better, or “opened the doors of the house”, they would understand her hobbies and personality. Especially in the 20th century, many societal norms looked down upon women making their own choices. So, just like the shutters in the house, it is demonstrated that women have the ability to close or open parts of their lives to other individuals.
Gender equality, racial justice, LGBTQ rights, and other social justice movements often intersect with feminist art. Many artists use their work to shed light on these issues, using their platforms to advocate for change and amplify marginalized voices. For example, American Gothic by Grant Wood reflects concerns about rural life and the rigidity of gender roles[6]. Harlem by Langston Hughes delves into the experience of African Americans in the early 20th century, addressing themes of race and class[2]. Brokeback Mountain directed by Ang Lee portrays a complex and poignant exploration of homosexuality, along with themes of love, identity, and societal expectations [3].
All in all, feminism has played a crucial role in reshaping the art world, challenging traditional norms, and amplifying the voices of women artists. From the feminist art movement of the 1960s and 1970s to the present day, the influence of feminism on art continues to be profound. The feminist art movement has inspired gender, identity, and power dynamics, ultimately enriching and diversifying the artistic landscape. Through these powerful works of art, women across the world feel empowered by the rich intricacies and powerful, emotional advocacy. All it took was a paint jar and a burning passion to represent.
More than 230 million women alive today have undergone Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) [4]. Deep-rooted in gender inequalities and misogynistic ideologies, the practice is a significant violation of women’s right to health, privacy, and physical integrity. It involves any and all procedures that involve partial or total removal of the external female genitalia, or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons [4]. It has no health benefit for the women involved, but rather a cause for severe bleeding and problems urinating. These complications can later develop into cysts, infections, as well as complications in childbirth and increased risk of newborn deaths [4]. These procedures are practiced in 92 countries, 51 of which have laws specifically prohibiting FGM [2].
FMG is split into four different classifications. Type 1 is the partial or total removal of the clitoral glans [4]. Type 2 is the partial or total removal of the clitoral glans as well as the labia minora [4]. Type 3 can also be known as infibulation. It is the narrowing of the vaginal opening through the creation of a covering seal. This seal is created by cutting and repositioning the labia minora, or labia majora, sometimes through stitching [4]. This can be done with or without removal of the clitoral hood and glans. The last classification is Type 4, which includes all other harmful procedures to the female genitalia for non-medical purposes like pricking, piercing and incising the genital area [4]. A procedure falling into any of these classifications can lead to debilitating health complications.
There are a variety of medical issues that can arise from FGM, ranging from immediate to long-term problems. The more invasive the FGM procedure, the more severe the repercussions. Some instantaneous ramifications include hemorrhaging, wound healing problems, shock, fever and in some cases, even death [4]. Longer-lasting consequences include increased risk of childbirth difficulties, psychological issues, keloid, urinary problems, menstruation problems etc [4]. These procedures are typically completed by healthcare providers, who know the dangerous aftermath of these procedures. So why do many of them continue to practice these procedures?
FGM takes place among indigenous and/or diaspora communities in numerous countries globally, typically performed on girls ages 0 to 15 [1]. Often in these communities, there is a cultural belief that FGM will ensure a girl’s proper upbringing, preserve family honor, and/or make a girl suitable for marriage [1]. This ultimately is centered around controlling the girl’s sexuality, and protecting her virginity to promote purity and marital fidelity. Individuals who belong to these communities are frequently faced with pressures from other community members, which can lead to coercion, perpetuating the practice further.
FGM has received opposition globally, with many organizations trying to bring an end to the invasive procedure. UNICEF and UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund) have been working together since 2008, leading the world’s largest program to end FGM. The UNFPA-UNICEF Joint Programme on the Elimination of Female Genital Mutilation, works with community members to raise awareness of FGM’s harms as well as works with governments for the development of policy against FGM [3]. For girls at risk and/or affected by FGM, UNICEF provides them with medical and psychological care. Since the establishment of the program, 13 countries have passed national legislation banning FGM [3]. More than 6 million girls and women have received prevention, protection, and treatment services related to FGM and 45 million people have made public declarations to abandon the practice [3].
FGM is a grevious threat to many girls and young women and its eradication is vital. By speaking up, enacting strong legal measures and raising awareness in communities, a future without this risk can become a reality. Bringing an end to FGM is not just the ending of a destructive practice; it is the restoration of human rights.
[2] FGM: A global picture. Equality Now. (2023, April 4). https://equalitynow.org/fgm-a-global-picture/#:~:text=Of%20the%2092%20countries%20where,such%20as%20the%20criminal%20or
[3] UNFPA-UNICEF Joint Programme on the Elimination of Female Genital Mutilation. UNICEF. (2024, March 8). https://www.unicef.org/protection/unfpa-unicef-joint-programme-eliminating-fgm
[4] What is female genital mutilation?. UNICEF. (n.d.). https://www.unicef.org/protection/female-genital-mutilation
