2024 Reflections: A Year of Growth, Solidarity and Unfinished Work
Posted: December 23. 2024
As we near the end of 2024, it’s a moment to pause, reflect and renew our collective commitment to ending female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) in the U.S. and globally. This year has been one of growth, learning and significant milestones but it has also reminded us of the work still left to do. We know this is a long journey—one that requires unrelenting commitment, collaboration and solidarity.
A Year of Strengthened Collaboration
Caitlin LeMay, our Director, reflects on the power of collaboration, which has been central to our progress this year. “This year I am reflecting on the power of collaboration and teamwork. From growing our team with the addition of Isatou and Kaitlin, to new partnerships and an ever-growing membership base, 2024 has shown me more than ever that we cannot do this work alone. It is vital that we continue to come together as a movement in 2025, hand in hand, to address FGM/C. Together, we can strengthen existing partnerships and build new ones to ensure we are addressing this issue from all angles. I’m excited to see where this collective solidarity will take us.”
The importance of collaboration cannot be overstated. We know that FGM/C is a complex issue with deep-rooted cultural, social and political challenges. But by working together with communities, advocates, legislators and survivors, we create the foundation for lasting change. The additions of Isatou and Kaitlin to our team have brought new perspectives, skills and energy but it is the strength of our collective work that will continue to drive our mission forward.
Legislative Action: A Call for Urgency
As Kaitlin Mitchell emphasizes, while we’ve made progress, there’s still much to be done, particularly on the legislative front. “As the year draws to a close, I am reflecting on two ‘I’s’: Introduce and Implement. While we’ve made great strides in banning FGM/C across the U.S., nine states still need to introduce and pass laws prohibiting this harmful practice. In 2025, we must push for the introduction of new bills and ensure the enforcement of laws in the 41 states that have already passed legislation. It’s not enough to have laws on paper; they must be implemented with urgency and support for survivors.”
As we move into 2025, the urgency to advocate for strong, comprehensive policies will remain at the core of our work. We cannot rest until every state passes and fully implements legislation that bans FGM/C, ensuring the safety and rights of every girl.
Personal Growth and Collective Victory
For Isatou, joining the Network in 2024 has been both a personal and professional journey. “2024 has been a year of personal growth and professional development for me. The opportunity to join this incredible team, alongside passionate individuals committed to ending FGM/C, has been inspiring. One of the most meaningful victories this year was seeing The Gambia maintain its ban on FGM/C—a shared triumph that demonstrates the power of collaboration. When we work together, we achieve greater results. Looking ahead to 2025, I am committed to continuing our educational outreach and raising awareness about FGM/C while supporting the technical assistance needs of our members.”
Isatou’s words reflect the heart of our work. Ending FGM/C is not just a matter of passing laws; it’s about changing hearts, minds and communities. The Gambia’s victory to uphold its ban on FGM/C is a powerful reminder that global solidarity can create change.
The Road Ahead: Solidarity and Action in 2025
As we look toward 2025, we are more aware than ever that ending FGM/C is not a single-year mission, but a lifelong one. We are inspired by the progress of the past year, but the work is far from done. In fact, we are just getting started.
In 2025, we will continue to push for stronger legislative action, deeper community engagement and more meaningful partnerships. We will support survivors in their journeys toward healing and justice and we will continue to educate and raise awareness, ensuring that every person—regardless of their background or where they live—understands the ramifications of FGM/C and the power of collective action to end it.
We are inspired by the strength, resilience and solidarity of this movement. We know that when we come together, nothing is impossible. We will carry forward the lessons, victories and challenges of 2024, committed to achieving the ultimate goal: a world where no girl undergoes FGM/C.