How I Suffered Female Genital Mutilation | Minutes With |

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  • čas přidán 9. 07. 2022
  • This week we sat down with Shamsa Araweelo, who has suffered Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) at the age of 6. Shamsa told us about her memories of the procedure, the terrible after effects of it and how she first found out she was different from other girls..
    We will be uploading part 2 of Shamsa’s interview next Sunday, 17th of July, where she will talk about what happened to her next and how she found strength to carry on with her life.
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Komentáře • 4,4K

  • @LADbible
    @LADbible  Před rokem +431

    Thanks to Shamsa for taking part!
    You can follow her here:
    instagram.com/shamsaaraweelo/
    instagram.com/gardenlocks
    www.tiktok.com/@president.araweelo
    czcams.com/channels/jgdl-fJEiLy2FFi0i1bLhQ.html

    • @Sul227
      @Sul227 Před rokem +19

      Can you please also do one for men. Many men like me suffer greatly due to being mutilated. There is barely any coverage of this topic. Please.

    • @cecitorres7905
      @cecitorres7905 Před rokem +9

      So, after this, has she been refered to a good gynecologist? Someone who can empathize with her, tell her options and actually give her good medical advice? Like, how is she now?

    • @anwarrazali4447
      @anwarrazali4447 Před rokem +4

      Holy shit

    • @mrreeree3633
      @mrreeree3633 Před rokem +5

      I didn’t realise in the year 2022 it was still legal in the UK/US to circumcise for none essentially medical / health reasons. Another example of the UK/US inconsistent condemnation of others while still practising these ancient procedures it self

    • @classicalteacher
      @classicalteacher Před rokem

      Do you want to stop this? Stop M.u.s.l.i.m.s. That ideology destroys women.

  • @Annavslv
    @Annavslv Před rokem +10154

    Stop calling child abuse a tradition, abuse is an abuse and nothing else! This woman is really strong, she and many other girls literally lived through pain and sickness

    • @stevesmith7843
      @stevesmith7843 Před rokem +1

      pretty sure we call child abuse "gender affirming surgery" now.... happening to children all over the world, and we're supposed to support it or be labelled bigots....

    • @Mixmasala218
      @Mixmasala218 Před rokem +17

      👌🏾

    • @phakyuu5028
      @phakyuu5028 Před rokem +13

      this is equality.

    • @yyg4632
      @yyg4632 Před rokem

      youre right. its backwards, idiotic, and willfully ignorant with all of the info we now have. Culture isnt an excuse for child abuse and abuse in general. the other half of this interview was her talking about her forced marriage, rapes, her genital mutilation getting ripped, and getting beat all the time by her "husband" and her uncles and community encouraging all this.

    • @kamogelomosweu1869
      @kamogelomosweu1869 Před rokem +250

      @@iamthisiam yes its abuse, no one should do that to a child, never. Its the samething actually.

  • @ariahazelwood3842
    @ariahazelwood3842 Před rokem +4785

    My mom had type 3 FGM forced on her as a young girl. I remember how when she used to give me showers in elementary school I looked at her one time and I asked her why she looked different from me down there, and she got so quiet.
    Now that I am grown we have more conversations about the horrible cultural practices but by God I want to hear her tell me what happened to her, I know she's kept it in for so long. God, Mom, I'm so sorry. Thank you for breaking the cycle.

  • @chrisbutton5005
    @chrisbutton5005 Před rokem +1479

    As a father of 3 girls, this pains me. When she mentioned that she was being held down by people who where supposed to protect her. I can't even imagine the fear and pain she (and many other women) have gone through. It needs to end, both male and female genital mutilation.

    • @cambev9084
      @cambev9084 Před 10 měsíci +29

      Fr its so fucked up i can’t believe people practice this and abuse their families for no reason😕

    • @colinsmith3187
      @colinsmith3187 Před 7 měsíci +39

      Yes I agree both female and male cosmetic genital mutilation needs to end. I am a man and was cut at age 11 and my body has been damaged in so many ways ever sense. There is no reason to cut a child’s genital for cosmetic concerns. If an adult wants to butcher themselves with full knowledge of what there doing so be it but we must protect children from this at all cost. I am happy female genital mutilation is taboo and illegal in the USA but we must extend the same protections to men as well. Far to many boys are cut as children and baby’s in the USA.

    • @kingpettytv
      @kingpettytv Před 7 měsíci

      ​​@@colinsmith3187first off why were you circumcised so late in life? Are you Jewish or something? Second off you're supposed to get it when you were a baby and not remember it at all so you can't really feel any difference later on and enjoy sex in the later years to come. Male circumcision also has its own benefits.

    • @maggiematthews3517
      @maggiematthews3517 Před 7 měsíci +34

      Absolutely agree. Cutting bits and pieces off your children for ANY reason except medical is abuse.

    • @evercie5539
      @evercie5539 Před 5 měsíci +8

      What a great father you are ! I’m glad some men truly see how awful it is, I was in that woman’s tiktok earlier and the things she says happening to so many girls and women make me so upset I’m crying I’m frustrated I want to scream… this is abuse 😢

  • @isabellesavill3934
    @isabellesavill3934 Před 7 měsíci +407

    It's outrageous that a doctor would examine her as a child and not immediately alert social services, so that steps could be taken to relieve her pain.

    • @theramblinggamer9793
      @theramblinggamer9793 Před měsícem +8

      In places where this happens, normally middle east or africa ie muslim areas, the doctors accept it as part of their culture, or if its the uk the doctors wont speak out cause this culture is allow free reign in the uk for fear of retaliation from these communities.

    • @lisamareepritchard6375
      @lisamareepritchard6375 Před měsícem +5

      Drs in the UK would be afraid to speak out imo for fear of being labelled racist

    • @anniebell6846
      @anniebell6846 Před 23 dny

      Please go watch the roundtable lad bible did they explain IT

  • @Frivillig
    @Frivillig Před rokem +5378

    I'm so greatful for my mom that stood her ground to both my grandma and the rest of my relatives to not let me go through FGM. My mom told me many years later that she would never leave me out of my sight due to fear of relatives doing this procedure on me. I'm for ever greatful to my mom for standing her ground for me, the way her mom never did. I'm so proud of every woman/man sharing their stories and for us all to speak about this gruesome violation to girls AND boys by brainwashed family members. This actions need to stop now!

    • @Frivillig
      @Frivillig Před rokem +206

      @Nomopoly 2, and what's the reason?

    • @Sabinefundel
      @Sabinefundel Před rokem +356

      @Nomopoly 2 maybe you would benefit, to get your glans removed?!

    • @Sabinefundel
      @Sabinefundel Před rokem +134

      @@Frivillig I´m so happy for you to have such a great mom.... I´m not from a culture like this, in which girls and women have to go such a horrible thing, but I know for sure, if I was, my mother wouldn´t stand up for me and even support that system.

    • @Frivillig
      @Frivillig Před rokem +74

      @@Sabinefundel, thank you Sabine! I'm sure majority of the mom's back in somalia loves their daughter, but the fear of the community, which is so vital has too much pressure. ❤

    • @Sabinefundel
      @Sabinefundel Před rokem +65

      @@Frivillig and because it is seen as "normal", I guess. People want to be considered as "normal", without realizing, that "normal" doesn´t mean, that something is good.

  • @PeaceboneGotFound
    @PeaceboneGotFound Před rokem +2869

    I'm so proud of her for faking her mom's signature so she could go to the sex ed class. I can't believe how much resilience she has after this traumatic experience

    • @abbefolkseger6927
      @abbefolkseger6927 Před rokem +23

      Her brother and father are cut too! Its the Normalisation of Cutting we must fight against!

    • @KyriaNunNuit
      @KyriaNunNuit Před rokem +78

      @@abbefolkseger6927 Yes, but FGM is far, far more severe than circumcision and also more damaging, as it often causes life-ling complications and suffering.

    • @manouchkaberus
      @manouchkaberus Před rokem +30

      @@abbefolkseger6927 is not the same for men because they have feelings men don’t suffer when they having sex and they don’t give birth.

    • @abbefolkseger6927
      @abbefolkseger6927 Před rokem

      @@manouchkaberus True! But all Knifing of kids is wrong whatever our WHITE Jewish Masters say.

    • @BeckBeckGo
      @BeckBeckGo Před rokem +36

      @@manouchkaberus not to mention this happens to boys before they’re old enough to form any memories. And they’re nowhere likely to die. Many girls legit die.
      And the clitoris has about three times the nerve endings than the penis.
      Comparing the two is like comparing breaking some toes to foot binding. Both suck. And neither should be forced on anybody. But sorry, they’re not comparable.

  • @genesisperez6369
    @genesisperez6369 Před 6 měsíci +170

    6 years old?!!! This was so difficult to watch but the strength of this woman is amazing.

    • @princessrocroyal
      @princessrocroyal Před 2 měsíci +6

      They worried about marriage but most 6 year olds can’t even read at that point

    • @apestaartjegeluk7706
      @apestaartjegeluk7706 Před 22 dny +1

      They even do it to babies and toddlers etc every age

  • @rustybookshelf8566
    @rustybookshelf8566 Před 8 měsíci +187

    My mom was mutilated, so were my aunts and grandmother. She vowed to never have it done to me and stood by it till her death when i were 11 years old. I had taken a trip to Kenya with my family and upon returning to England, we were stopped in the airport and each of us were questioned, including my Dad. My dad was questioned by police on why he had made us take the trip and whether it was for FGM. They went through our belongings and checked my older sister (female staff, with informed consent) . They figured out that we hadn’t been mutilated and talked to my dad that this wasn’t prejudice-driven but because they’d received a warning from our schools that we were going to Somalia. At this time, the UK education head, Gove, told headteachers to inform teachers that certain students (somali girls) were prone to being taken abroad to be cut. So it was obvious why the school had listen us as at-risk youth. Afterwards, we had another visit by police at our home and our dad at his workplace, to tell us that we should always talk to a teacher if we were going to be cut or were cut afterwards. My dad was warned or the legal repercussions and told he shouldn’t feel the pressure to conform to cultural expectations. My dad is a respectful dignified man with 5 sisters so was horrified at the idea of him putting his daughters through what his sisters went through. As a kid he remembers hearing their screams of pain so would run out and play football to forget it. Me and my sisters are lucky because our parents went to University and are educated. But for 60,000+ British Somali girls and millions more across Europe,America,Asia and Africa, they aren’t so lucky. With a largely uneducated population such as Djibouti and Somalia, it is hard to teach people the effects and barbarity of FGM. As they, having been victimised themselves, believe they are doing their daughters a favour, making sure she isn’t a social pariah and finds herself a husband.
    I don’t see this practice changing with Law, as many law-enforcement have family that maintain it. The culture in itself has to be totally flipped and that can’t happen until the under-developed (technologically) population can be accessed. Maybe in a few decades we’ll see change.

    • @Pyrrhic537
      @Pyrrhic537 Před 6 měsíci +7

      Wow. What a comment! In all my life as a fairy chauvinistic man I never thought I'd watch a video like this and read a comment like your's. Thank God your father was educated and against this and Michael Gove did something good.
      I don't get this fear of a clitoris and labia. It's not as if it's full of spikes and poison. Suppose it's about control. It might even predate Islam.

    • @zhaviyah84
      @zhaviyah84 Před 4 měsíci

      Ew. Strangers forcing themselves to view your genitals to ‘check’ is almost just as bad. Rapey bs and none of their business

  • @lavenderdemons
    @lavenderdemons Před rokem +1950

    This falls under all types of abuse tbh. And it’s literal torture too. This is incredibly sadistic and I can’t imagine the kind of gaslighting these girls receive. Being told it’s “traditional” or that you’re dirty if you don’t have this “procedure” done. It’s awful.

    • @user-uh9bl6lg8w
      @user-uh9bl6lg8w Před rokem

      Its taught in Q u raan.

    • @eilenekellogg-ki2br
      @eilenekellogg-ki2br Před 7 měsíci +9

      The older women truly believe it's true.

    • @AnhNguyen-hn9vj
      @AnhNguyen-hn9vj Před 3 měsíci

      it is sad but it is like this everywhere. In the west, they call it cosmetic genital surgery. In fact, it is at a insanity advance in the west just not the genital, including breast, butt, ass, wtf it is everywhere. dammm. lol a lot more advance than the backward Africa.

    • @JohnMarston-sf1vk
      @JohnMarston-sf1vk Před 2 měsíci +4

      What about male circumcision that is so common in America and west in general?

    • @de341f6
      @de341f6 Před 2 měsíci

      sex doesn't become painful after male circumcision. Men can still have sex pleasurably even with modern circumcision. There isn't a version of FGM where that happens. @@JohnMarston-sf1vk

  • @jennifertalley49
    @jennifertalley49 Před rokem +2775

    This is barbaric and sickening. I hope you heal mentally from this. Sending you love and compassion, to live your best life.

    • @mattmeade983
      @mattmeade983 Před rokem +21

      This was hard to watch..,Is circumcision not a similar thing in some respects?

    • @pineapplehomie
      @pineapplehomie Před rokem +38

      @@mattmeade983 It definitely is. My partner has had a male circumcision due to a catholic upbringing and though it was definitely less brutal than FGM, the result was that he feels little during sexual activities. It permeates a lot of religions, unfortunately.

    • @omiethamsia9009
      @omiethamsia9009 Před rokem

      @@mattmeade983 male circumcision is definitely something to talk about, but FGM is far more dangerous and destructive. the equivalent to men of FGM isn’t circumcision but rather cutting the top of the penis off.

    • @Sul227
      @Sul227 Před rokem +45

      @@mattmeade983 Certainly. I suffer a lot due to being mutilated as a child. Because I am active in a charity I also talked to a lot of FGM survivors and other survivors of MGM and the problems and emotions of both men and women who experienced genital cutting are largely the same.
      FGM is certainly more severe in most cases but MGM is also wrong for the same reason: They are unnecessary, irreversible cosmetic procedures on children who cannot consent. No child should have to go through this.

    • @zoe-iu5ut
      @zoe-iu5ut Před rokem +61

      @@Sul227 glad you both recognize that while both procedures are horrific and insulting, FGM is much more brutal. I have had so many men argue with me that they were exactly the same and that I must support MGM if I try to say FGM is worse. There’s no denying the negative long term effects of male circumcision but I’m kinda sick of first world men who have been circumcised overtaking the conversation about FGM. Both are horrific but there’s a time and place for everything, and it feels a little inappropriate when guys come onto FGM experience videos to cry “well what about us????”

  • @angelamarong9680
    @angelamarong9680 Před 8 dny +4

    Same thing happened to me when I was 6 I'll never forget that day

    • @Glesga_lassie
      @Glesga_lassie Před 4 hodinami

      I am so sorry, I can't begin to imagine what you've gone through 😢 sending you lots of love and healing ❤

  • @day6atemywallet78
    @day6atemywallet78 Před 11 měsíci +244

    I’m so proud of my mother. She had a healthy relationship with her mother but they both succumbed to this so called tradition. My mother grew up and had 5 girls yet she never thought of doing this once and for that I’m grateful

    • @molly9445
      @molly9445 Před 10 měsíci +9

      God bless your mother for keeping you safe

  • @analiachyrnialisnichuk2125
    @analiachyrnialisnichuk2125 Před rokem +2170

    It is so painful to imagine grandmothers , mothers, aunts, sisters etc perpetually repeating torture on their own family. It is just illogical.
    Thanks to this brave, smart, gorgeous women for sharing her story.

    • @stellamary204
      @stellamary204 Před rokem +75

      That's what I don't get, these women went through it but will put another GIRL through it?!

    • @stellamary204
      @stellamary204 Před rokem +4

      @@fritnat May I ask if you mean male circumcision? Not trying to be rude just want to understand what you meant.

    • @stellamary204
      @stellamary204 Před rokem +5

      @@fritnat thank you for bringing this to light for me. I never saw male circumcision in the same way as FGM. I will have to read up on it more.

    • @SeaCheles.Love.4
      @SeaCheles.Love.4 Před rokem +2

      Families can be the worst !!! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

    • @tommannion7601
      @tommannion7601 Před rokem

      @@SeaCheles.Love.4 ò

  • @ItsDesha
    @ItsDesha Před rokem +1265

    I felt physically sick from this. I had to pause it a couple of times of how horrendous this is. I can not even begin to imagine what it must have been like being 6 years old and having this horribly brutal violation being done to you. And the life long aftermath? There are no words. I'm deeply, deeply sorry for Shamsa and every girl and woman who's experienced this.

    • @BeautiMegg
      @BeautiMegg Před rokem +12

      Same here!!

    • @samanthaolivas8094
      @samanthaolivas8094 Před rokem +22

      I'm watching this now and I felt sick towards the end. I listen to A LOT of true crime and hear such sad and awful stories, but this made me so so sick. I think hearing how this cruel practice is normalized in an entire culture has given me this queasy feeling of knowing there are girls and boys who endure this and are told its normal. We hear murder and abuse in true crime and we know its wrong and must be stopped, but this society does this as if it were "visiting a dentist"?? Those poor kids...bless this woman and her road to recovery.

    • @lizchagolla7536
      @lizchagolla7536 Před rokem +3

      Same 😶

    • @Mhonsali
      @Mhonsali Před rokem

      For me I like it to do

    • @Mhonsali
      @Mhonsali Před rokem +1

      Now I'm old so i can go to-do why's now I want to do the Sexual is interested😜

  • @mikewolf3264
    @mikewolf3264 Před rokem +316

    It's incredibly sad how women are denied of their sexual health. It's sick. It's gotta stop.

    • @chlqeh2330
      @chlqeh2330 Před rokem +27

      it’s horrible. i know someone personally who had this done and it’s made her feel so ashamed and traumatised her whole life, she said when she turns 18 she’s going to have reconstructive surgery and my family have agreed to be there for her to look after her post-procedure as her own family won’t support it. my heart aches for every woman who’s ever been forced to undergo this

    • @vickyengler21
      @vickyengler21 Před 6 měsíci

      @@chlqeh2330 i wish your friend all the best for the reconstruction and hope that this will give her emotional and physical healing! bless your family✨

    • @bbrriaaanna
      @bbrriaaanna Před 2 měsíci

      it makes me soo mad when men say shit like women have it easy, when shit like this happens or shit like femicide or anything violent just because someone is born female . its incredibly sad . and its almost always at the hands of men or caused by men. like this here, fgm, is basically for the pleasure of the little girls future husbands. and the women who did it for her and the women who let her child get this done were definitely conditioned to believe this by their men. incredibly sad.@@chlqeh2330

    • @JohnMarston-sf1vk
      @JohnMarston-sf1vk Před 2 měsíci +3

      What about male circumcision that is so common in America and west in general?

    • @mikewolf3264
      @mikewolf3264 Před 2 měsíci +2

      @@JohnMarston-sf1vk I was told by medical professionals that there is a benefit to circumcision.

  • @maiacurry-hughes3579
    @maiacurry-hughes3579 Před 5 měsíci +72

    I remember learning about female circumcision in college when I took a psychology class on human sexuality. And I remember being shocked, disgusted, saddened that this even existed. No girl should EVER have to go through it! EVER!
    I've always tried to be respectful to others traditions, but not in this. No. Never.
    I am proud of this woman for giving her voice on the subject. Thank you for your story. You are an amazing woman.❤

  • @ejl6525
    @ejl6525 Před rokem +2266

    She’s so strong. This is terrifying, absolutely horrible. My sister is 5 years and I cant imagine anything like this ever happening to her. My heart cries for this young lady in the video. Her courage to tell her story is amazing- YOU are a goddess💗

    • @isaiahjuarez9352
      @isaiahjuarez9352 Před rokem

      Wait she’s gonna go through this??

    • @richardlopez2932
      @richardlopez2932 Před rokem

      @@isaiahjuarez9352 Yeah, I'm a bit befuddled myself. (Unless they're a bot, and then it makes perfect sense.) At any rate, I wanted to tell another person that I watched this and that I was impressed beyond words by what she had to say and how much resolve she had in saying it. I'm not an easy guy to scare. I haven't suffered more trauma than the average interesting person, I think I've just got a more dexterous amygdala than most people...

    • @ejl6525
      @ejl6525 Před rokem +19

      @@isaiahjuarez9352 no no no, i was saying i cant imagine anything like this ever happening to my sister, thats all. thanks for clarifying :)

    • @4Mikes4Mindset4
      @4Mikes4Mindset4 Před rokem +3

      Keep them away from drag hour. That's our American version

    • @damnmuggle
      @damnmuggle Před rokem

      @@4Mikes4Mindset4 shut up

  • @MollyRocket09
    @MollyRocket09 Před rokem +1245

    I just can’t wrap my head around how any parent could do this to their child. This procedure could actually kill their child…why would any parent risk that? FGM is just a sick ritual. Shamsa is such a brave and beautiful lady.

    • @bibimoorsaleen3120
      @bibimoorsaleen3120 Před rokem +8

      Thats cruel

    • @bibimoorsaleen3120
      @bibimoorsaleen3120 Před rokem +9

      So so sad

    • @Luca-gc6pz
      @Luca-gc6pz Před rokem +46

      I can't either. Seems traditions are more important to some cultures than their child's life.

    • @malekapf5618
      @malekapf5618 Před 10 měsíci

      Circumcision is also barbaric. Boys have no say and no anesthesia 😢 30,000 nerve endings are cut off.

    • @molly9445
      @molly9445 Před 10 měsíci +26

      I didn't circumcise my son because it seemed brutal, but what these girls go through is so much worse

  • @leennavijandren6551
    @leennavijandren6551 Před 7 měsíci +41

    I cant put into words how this made me feel as a woman. Im so sorry to anybody who as ever had to experience this.

  • @nadiazikorah2967
    @nadiazikorah2967 Před rokem +253

    When I was pregnant I had a conversation with my mom about FGM, and she said that her mother knew no better but she made sure that it ended with her.
    After watching this I am even more thankful for her being my mom.
    I can’t believe this woman had to go through so much trauma.
    The women who still practice it, should be arrested.
    We should stop accepting torture for tradition.

  • @nate2759
    @nate2759 Před rokem +1451

    She’s gorgeous inside and out, it hurts so much to hear her story but she is so brave for talking about it and spreading awareness.

    • @newleft2254
      @newleft2254 Před rokem +18

      More awareness has to be spread about the fact that transgender surgeries are highly funded and talked about but no one gives a shit about real women and real-world problems. So much for women's rights, ay...

    • @kane4013
      @kane4013 Před rokem +16

      She has so much life in her eyes. A beautiful soul.

    • @skitm
      @skitm Před rokem +7

      very very pretty in and out!

    • @fentyzlap
      @fentyzlap Před rokem +4

      @@newleft2254 mhm, hell I saw a comment here saying “what about trans surgery on kids” when that shit is talked about 24/7.

    • @tommyegirl
      @tommyegirl Před rokem +7

      yeah because it would be way less tragic if she wasnt physically attractive?

  • @Kris-zy7is
    @Kris-zy7is Před rokem +1245

    How, just how?! Her mom & other female relatives knew the fear & pain they went through themselves & still allowed their own babies to go through this is even worse in my eyes. You are suppose to do better for your children based on your own experiences & she was failed, completely failed by her entire family. Her strength & spirit is admirable.

    • @glewglew9852
      @glewglew9852 Před rokem +28

      You do realize that had she stayed in Somalia her life would have become a complete hell if she wasn't cut? It's in most instances better to follow tradition and culture than not to follow. Women who live in another way can often be sexually assaulted for it or can even be murdered because people believe that what she does/who she is is wrong. If anything her mother and other females in the family were trying to protect her and maybe even accomplished that if she stayed in Somalia. Both religiously and from the community. Circumsizing men is very common world wide and no one questions that while in many circumstances it's not done properly and also getting a part cut off your body is always unnecessary and causes unneeded trauma. Male circumcision has just been normalized. But it doesn't make it ok. And no one is calling a large part of the world crazy for doing that. If it's considered normal and even good for someone then it can only mean that her family members were doing what they thought was best for her. You know that.

    • @13lilsykos
      @13lilsykos Před rokem +25

      @@glewglew9852 - I'm glad you brought up male circumcision. It's completely unnecessary yet most mothers send their baby boys off to get circumcised regardless. It doesn't seem to be as horrific as FGM but I wonder if that's just because it's considered a "medical" procedure. Like, if people were cutting baby boy's privates like they do in some countries here in America (where I am from) I don't think it would as normalized. I'm not sure how I feel about this.

    • @ItsDesha
      @ItsDesha Před rokem +204

      @@13lilsykos @glewglew The both of you aren't serious right? Yes, circumcision of the penis is also totally unnecessary and should not be accepted and normal either but this is about the very barbaric and horrific practice of female genital mutilation. The equivalent of circumcision on a vagina would be to remove a part of the clitoral hood while you're still an infant. What this woman and so many, many others have experienced is the equivalent of the head of the penis being removed, plus the balls and not as an infant but at an age you will be scarred by the memories for life.

    • @dyawr
      @dyawr Před rokem +35

      @@ItsDesha Thank you!

    • @dyawr
      @dyawr Před rokem

      Forget that, how did the *doctors* in Britain not do anything or offer any kind of solution?! This woman spent *years* in pain, every month & the doctors couldn't even *suggest,* as *medical professionals* that: "you know, we could open you up a little, it will decrease the pain..."
      There are women who get *permanent* damage to their reproductive systems bc of the prolonged pressure from fluids building up in their uterus & vagina!
      I'm sorry, but this type of indiferent *cowardice* is just digusting & appalling. Imagine cowtailing to barbaric practices, bc you don't want to seem oFfEnSivE. 🙄

  • @misteryace21
    @misteryace21 Před rokem +174

    One time my boyfriend told me he his ex had FGM done to her. The sad thing is, we all went to the same school. She was such a bubbly person, I'd have never thought such a horrific act had been done to her, I feel so sad for her, I hope she's doing well

    • @allifulk6563
      @allifulk6563 Před 12 dny

      The happiest people suffer the worst traumas and just don't want to see others sad so we stay bubbly to hopefully cheer others up. We have found peace ❤

  • @JoJoKaat
    @JoJoKaat Před 5 měsíci +42

    Praise to the brave mothers who break this horror cycle.

  • @danigomes7879
    @danigomes7879 Před rokem +345

    I was shamed for not being mutilated. I remember my friends mum telling her not to play with me because I was dirty. What a crazy mentality to have.

  • @Dread.Pirate.Roberts
    @Dread.Pirate.Roberts Před rokem +1097

    This woman suffered mutilation at the age of 6 and all the comments talking about how beautiful she is. Maybe people should focus on how brave and courageous she is rather than in her looks.

    • @siofrarafferty3821
      @siofrarafferty3821 Před rokem +114

      Thank you for saying this. Misogyny in itself: people are more focused on how she looks than what she has to say, no matter how important it is.

    • @HayleeStar
      @HayleeStar Před rokem +26

      She had literally been to hell and survived it’s not something many people can come back from mentally

    • @NaNa-re3wc
      @NaNa-re3wc Před rokem +106

      I haven’t read a single comment just stating how aesthetically beautiful she is. The comments that do mention that also say she is a strong and internally beautiful person too. Seems like you’re just looking for something to get upset at and misinterpret so you can signal that you’re more virtuous than others. Chill.

    • @shannondavis8626
      @shannondavis8626 Před rokem +12

      She’s beautiful inside and out🫶🏽

    • @elastronaute1198
      @elastronaute1198 Před rokem +49

      I'm pretty sure by 'beautiful' they are not just talking about her looks. They are talking about inside and out, including her demeanour and her persona.

  • @Xavierthagreat69
    @Xavierthagreat69 Před měsícem +12

    As a father to two young ladies this breaks my heart. I couldnt imagine. Bless your heart, and every other young lady that has to endure such atrocities.

  • @Edie_Mrigna
    @Edie_Mrigna Před rokem +32

    Hard for me to sit through. Imagine being pinned down, cut without anaesthesia. I feel so privileged here. FGM is such a horrible practice. My heart goes out to all the women out there. Gosh! She's brave. Massive respect 👑

  • @BobaTeaBeech
    @BobaTeaBeech Před rokem +944

    This was hard to watch. Her trauma and pain is unbelievable, she is so strong. I’m so glad she escaped all this abuse and broke the cycle with her own daughter, she is incredibly strong and I’m glad she is doing better now. Makes me realized how privileged I am to be born in America.

    • @user-uh9bl6lg8w
      @user-uh9bl6lg8w Před rokem +3

      Its practice of Q u ran

    • @odderlendsolvang3790
      @odderlendsolvang3790 Před rokem

      doing it to boys is eqally wrong

    • @aylacook8767
      @aylacook8767 Před rokem +20

      ​@@user-uh9bl6lg8w False she explained people have studied the Quran it is not mentioned in the Quran at all

    • @khadija4958
      @khadija4958 Před rokem

      @@user-uh9bl6lg8wo I claim it is not because I read the whole Quran from beginning to end this is just a tradition that is in fact harm because god created her a woman to feel and she produce children this tradition is mainly not for Muslim we support nature how it is and we do not shame other for they’re natural genitals

    • @cocoloves3516
      @cocoloves3516 Před 9 měsíci +4

      It's also done in the USA

  • @winnieratemo
    @winnieratemo Před rokem +731

    Having undergone this myself, everything she said is true. It is a different kind of pain.I hope to one day wake up and find this practice gone.

    • @elmartell5724
      @elmartell5724 Před rokem +87

      I am so sorry you went through that

    • @winnieratemo
      @winnieratemo Před rokem +20

      @@elmartell5724 thank you

    • @elmartell5724
      @elmartell5724 Před rokem +23

      @Winnie Ratemo I hope you are able to find every bit as much healing and peace as is possible in this life.

    • @nicole_silvers
      @nicole_silvers Před rokem +18

      I'm so sorry to hear that you went through this. I have tears running down my cheeks just listening to this video because it shatters my heart and my heart aches to know that little girls and women are forced to go through this torturous abuse. I can't imagine the pain, and also the emotional trauma this causes, and I hope and pray that you find healing, both physically and emotionally. You are beautifully and wonderfully made by God and you deserve the BEST that life has to offer! Always remember that and never settle for less! Much love and hugs!

    • @barrronessa
      @barrronessa Před rokem +8

      i’m so sorry girl, you’re brave & strong & loved ❤️

  • @Pickles6115
    @Pickles6115 Před rokem +170

    I used to work in LD/Gyn department and never in my lifetime didn't I think that I would have a patient with FGM. So far we've had 3. Those poor women the torture and trauma they had to endure, they be apologetic for not being "a normal patient" that we were accustomed to. I remember one told us she was five when it was done to her. This was her first child and she was hoping for a boy so her daughter would not endure what she had. It was a boy.

    • @user-uh9bl6lg8w
      @user-uh9bl6lg8w Před rokem +6

      Its Mus limms

    • @chanelb6050
      @chanelb6050 Před 10 měsíci +18

      FGM is also practiced by sects of Christianity and Judaism, including Coptic Christians and Ethiopian Jews. However, no religion requires it be performed and actually predates Christianity, Islam and Judaism.

    • @lololola991
      @lololola991 Před 6 měsíci +1

      Men are also genitally mutilated even more often. Sounds like she doesn’t have the same standard of respect for her sons bodily autonomy.

    • @bunnysm
      @bunnysm Před 6 měsíci +20

      ​@lololola991 The level of damage is quite different. Not that cutting the skin on the penis is ok, but FGM rather equates to cutting off the whole penis and living a straw for peeing and ejaculation (if this were possible).

    • @lololola991
      @lololola991 Před 6 měsíci +4

      @@bunnysm a lot of the time yes woman’s overall are more consequential for function. There are circumsicions where men do have complications like that and their whole penis is affected by it as well (my bfs dick is bent and misshapen bc the signals from the tighter skin affected its growth). Regardless both are unnecessary, a violation of personal rights to bodily autonomy and genital mutilation. it’s hypocritical of the medical field to only have an opinion on one side cuz there are detrimental consequences to male ones as well, with the big one for all being losing the most sensitive nerve dense tissue of the penis(equivalent to the clit). it’s just normalized and they are minutes old

  • @Gothy_Guru
    @Gothy_Guru Před rokem +71

    It’s so heartbreaking to think not one doctor gave her medical advice… this woman is so strong and open.

    • @iwant2bback
      @iwant2bback Před rokem

      I was going to say like how come this shit doctor left her without help

  • @gump5ter01
    @gump5ter01 Před rokem +1432

    I can’t cope hearing this but I have forced myself to watch. I think it’s important to listen to these stories. I hate that she felt lucky she didn’t die. The fact that she was able to see any part of this as a positive is an incredible indictment of who she is. I’m not religious. But I try to respect other beliefs as much as I can. This is somehthh no human should EVER look at and think it’s just cultural. Total anger watching this. Amazingly strong woman

    • @squeakyrabbit
      @squeakyrabbit Před rokem +40

      I too forced myself to listen, for the same reason as you. I'm so glad I did, I learned a lot.

    • @m.7373a
      @m.7373a Před rokem +44

      It is cultural. Islam doesnt endorse fgm

    • @CasualWatcher279
      @CasualWatcher279 Před rokem +13

      Just listening to her story requires strength. I couldn't do it in one go. To endure that is beyond anything I feel capable of, beyond anything anyone should have to go through.

    • @fay9905
      @fay9905 Před rokem +30

      It is cultural, maybe if you actually studied islam, you would know that our religion is STRONGLY against this barbaric tradition. Why would someone who believes in god think that god creation’s needs to be altered and mutilated?

    • @gump5ter01
      @gump5ter01 Před rokem +38

      @@fay9905 I never once said Islam did this. I’m not sure why you think I did. I never actually said anything about what cultures did as
      I don’t know.

  • @sandyschneider6792
    @sandyschneider6792 Před rokem +821

    I am so terribly sorry you had to undergo this! Seems everything is about sex and male gratification! Unsterile, no anesthesia, brutal. My heart goes out to you women!

    • @iaw7406
      @iaw7406 Před rokem +9

      boys get this done too

    • @roxymarks9636
      @roxymarks9636 Před rokem

      @@iaw7406 do boys have clits and labias?

    • @bananius1303
      @bananius1303 Před rokem

      @@iaw7406 how the fuck? bullshit

    • @73Datsun180B
      @73Datsun180B Před rokem +6

      @@iaw7406 please explain?

    • @pberg9169
      @pberg9169 Před rokem

      Im a man and my privates are mutilated by my grandmother when i was 6. It looks disgusting and dont feel anything anymore. I never knew it happened. Im waiting for the day i die so i can get revenge and make my grandmother suffer forever.

  • @meaculpa6984
    @meaculpa6984 Před 7 měsíci +11

    They say they do this to girls so they don’t feel physical pleasure, but they do this to girls so they feel emotionally scarred and are ashamed and easier to control. This is the same tactics that sociopaths use on their victims. It’s not just about the physical pleasure or pain, but about the shame, trauma, obedience and control. These mothers and aunts are so traumatized that they would rather inflict unimaginable suffering and irreversible damage on their own babies than face the evil that has been perpetrated on them and by them…

  • @typeoneauthor
    @typeoneauthor Před 11 měsíci +51

    For someone who went through something so horrendously traumatic, she tells the story and stays together so well. I'm mad impressed. I'd end up on the floor and damn near catatonic.

  • @MyxDyingxFantasy
    @MyxDyingxFantasy Před rokem +491

    I work in a school and have to have yearly training to teach us to spot signs of potential FGM. So when I saw this video, I had to watch, as incredibly difficult as it is to hear. It's still frighteningly prevalent here in the UK. Children being told their "going on holiday to visit relatives" and returning having gone through FGM. Its a horrific practice and we need to do all we can to protect children from this abuse.

    • @Sul227
      @Sul227 Před rokem +15

      Same with male genital mutilation, only that it is entirely legal.

    • @nate2759
      @nate2759 Před rokem +132

      @@Sul227 Removing foreskin is not comparable to removing the clitorous and labia. Foreskin removal generally does not affect sexual function at all and definitely does not affect their ability to urinate. It may not be right but it’s not comparable in anyway. However, what would be comparable is “female circumcision”, which is removing the clitorous hood which is like foreskin on a penis. FGM is completely different.

    • @Sul227
      @Sul227 Před rokem +22

      @@nate2759 What you described as "female circumcision" is also FGM.
      Foreskin removal does greatly reduce sexual function as it is the most sensitive part of the penis and provides skin mobility. Yes, foreskin removal is not comparable to the removal of the clitoris and labia, but it is comparable to the less severe forms you have mentioned, which are also illegal.
      In order not to be hypocritical here, one would either have to argue that foreskin removal should be banned and if it should not, it is legitimate to ask why equally or less severe forms of FGM should not be legal. That is why it is important to not view MGM and FGM as separate issues, as one legitimises the other.

    • @Vaginaninja
      @Vaginaninja Před rokem

      @@nate2759 why are you making this a competition? Both are bad and over 100 infant boys will die this year in USA because their parents chose to mutilate them.
      Stop diminishing what boys go through. You are pretty much a MGM apologist. You are part of the problem. Quit your sexism now

    • @Vaginaninja
      @Vaginaninja Před rokem +16

      @@Sul227 nicely put. I am so sick of people completely dismissing the suffering of young boys. Like, why? It's not a competition. And if it was, MGM is so horrifically that tbh I think it needs more attention than this video.
      I am disgusted by some of the comments.
      That 1 week old child doesn't even know the word "no." His body, his freaking choice

  • @cameronhendry3297
    @cameronhendry3297 Před rokem +480

    This is terrifying. I cannot even imagine what this is like to go through. Some people are complete monsters!

    • @kristinmeyer489
      @kristinmeyer489 Před rokem +1

      If you've ever been ambushed by any group to cause you harm, when their definition was culturally based in lies, you know that MOST people are monsters. Most people, in groups, love to play God with anyone they can isolate, surround, violate, and harm. Organized stalking (a CRIME people who think of themselves as "good" for committing against others converted into "its" by a methodical prolonged malicious process of immersive, totally dehumanizing environmental decomposition) is similarly done by WHOLESALE BETRAYALS of the social contract by way of perpetual lynchings and microaggressions over YEARS STOLEN from the victims' lives.
      The culturally normalized violence against anyone called "less than" for the purposes of "improving" them is broad and common, BECAUSE MOST PEOPLE ARE MONSTERS. Experience PROVES this.

    • @liamjohnson2474
      @liamjohnson2474 Před rokem

      so you're uncircumcised then?

    • @gonnabeok
      @gonnabeok Před rokem

      Better grow up kiddo.

    • @joeunderwood3693
      @joeunderwood3693 Před rokem +20

      @@gonnabeok What do you mean by that?

    • @Connorthecatsdad
      @Connorthecatsdad Před rokem +54

      @@joeunderwood3693 they're trying to be a tough Edge Lord in a CZcams comment section. Just ignore them

  • @maddiemahoney8533
    @maddiemahoney8533 Před rokem +6

    I’m so sorry you went through this Shamsa. I can’t imagine what you went through. Thank you for educating us who aren’t familiar with this procedure. I pray this practice will end for all girls!! You are in my heart.

  • @rawbluecheese
    @rawbluecheese Před rokem +17

    I'm 12 and minutes in and this beautiful woman's experience of such severe child abuse and it's horrifying. Bless her for being so open in sharing her painful story.. I am so sorry girls are inflicted with this painful abuse and I've paused the vid to do an online search for the best way to show support via relevant charites to grls who are targeted for FGM.

  • @yasminsharif1975
    @yasminsharif1975 Před rokem +569

    I'm somali and I've also had FGM so I understand and feel all the pain and trauma she has been through I had 1st stage of FGM and I would never do that to my future daughters when I have kids it's horrible.

    • @myrissaberry5350
      @myrissaberry5350 Před rokem +47

      I’m so sorry you had to experience this.

    • @yasminsharif1975
      @yasminsharif1975 Před rokem +34

      @@myrissaberry5350 not only have I experienced this but alot of somali girls and thanks hun its okay❤❤

    • @shannondavis8626
      @shannondavis8626 Před rokem +16

      I’m sorry this happened to you. ❤

    • @Cheerslove08
      @Cheerslove08 Před rokem +13

      I’m so sorry you went through this, so barbaric 💔

    • @husnambulwa5020
      @husnambulwa5020 Před rokem +6

      It is sickening. Total BS. Did it give you a good husband because you were cut

  • @Authenticallyathena
    @Authenticallyathena Před rokem +375

    I don't understand how anyone can think this is ok or acceptable. How can a woman who has been through it herself be ok watching a child go through it? I don't understand, but this woman is incredible. Her bravery, and her clarity about what happened to her is phenomenal.

    • @nicole_silvers
      @nicole_silvers Před rokem +36

      Right! And what type of woman could actually be the one to hold the blade in her hand and do this to little girls knowing the pain and emotional trauma it causes?!

    • @nicole_silvers
      @nicole_silvers Před rokem +3

      @K E I agree! A person would have to be evil to do such a thing!

    • @Shield954
      @Shield954 Před 11 měsíci

      Because they'd been indoctrinated by the misogyny and patriarchy in their culture.

    • @witcheshazel
      @witcheshazel Před 10 měsíci

      @@ke4692these woman were probably also horribly brainwashed and abused by the men who encouraged this. I dont know for sure, and it of course doesn’t justify ANYTHING. But the root of the evil most likely wasnt started there

    • @mrsadlower
      @mrsadlower Před 8 měsíci

      Because they've been culturally brainwashed to believe these women are more "pure" because they've done this to them. Make circumcision still exists in the US. 🤷‍♀️

  • @melissastevenson6673
    @melissastevenson6673 Před 11 měsíci +10

    You are an absolute inspiration. I listened to every last word. I am a teacher in the UK and have had "training" on FGM. This was more insightful and impactful on me as a professional and a human being that any of the courses I have been to. I hope that other teachers, doctors, survivors, "cutters", parents... Anyone else can see your story. It will change lives and I'm certain it already has done. Thank you

  • @Kim-qt7yn
    @Kim-qt7yn Před rokem +6

    Shamsa, thank you for sharing your story with such dignity and grace. I am proud of you. By creating awareness, YOU are helping to break the chain of abuse. This seed that you have planted today will have positive effects for generations to come. I broke a chain in my family in the US-it was domestic violence and sexual abuse.These painful wounds are mainly to your psyche. Like you I did not remain quiet, I too created awareness. Stay strong, be proud and courageous-YOU are amazing!

  • @queenofthebutterflies5212
    @queenofthebutterflies5212 Před rokem +221

    OMG, I am really struggling listening to this. As a rape & sexual assault victim myself I am SO passionate about women/girl's rights. This poor, darling girl has been thru such an immense journey of AGONY & misogyny, it just tears at my heart. Shamsa is SO STRONG & courageous to share her story. Thankyou, Shamsa. You absolutely ROCK Xxoo

    • @queenofthebutterflies5212
      @queenofthebutterflies5212 Před rokem +31

      @@fritnat I do not agree with your argument. You are taking this down a completely different alleyway. Of course it's a women's rights issue. Fgm happens to WOMEN!!!!! How can you logically argue that this is not a women's rights issue when we're talking about her body. When women are seen as equals by both cultures, women will have better outcomes in EVERY aspect. Thankyou, cya.

    • @Asiwnsk
      @Asiwnsk Před rokem

      @@fritnat just stop at this point, noone is gonna read that

  • @elviravalde761
    @elviravalde761 Před rokem +648

    She’s so beautiful and incredibly well spoken. My heart really goes out to her and any other girls and women who have gone through this horrific, barbaric practice. This is inflicting a lifetime of pain and complications. “Culture” is no justification for this. It’s just pure misogyny.

    • @chrisolagrim3597
      @chrisolagrim3597 Před rokem +1

      A woman performed the disgusting act. How is it Misogyny??

    • @Trund27
      @Trund27 Před rokem +80

      @@chrisolagrim3597 get educated. Misogyny can be perpetrated by anyone, regardless of gender.

    • @julief634
      @julief634 Před rokem +1

      @@chrisolagrim3597 Dude, you're clueless

    • @laylauwu7098
      @laylauwu7098 Před rokem +34

      @@fritnat key words: your position and her position. People can have different opinions. The definition of mysogony is ingrained prejudice against, dislike of or contempt for women. Doesn't exclude women hating women.

    • @classicalteacher
      @classicalteacher Před rokem

      @@Trund27 It's the misogynistic ideology of the horrible "cult" that controls her county and the Middle East. I can't write the name since Google auto deletes anything disparaging (even if true) about this religion.

  • @ritahiggins139
    @ritahiggins139 Před 3 měsíci +2

    You are a survivor! Thank God you survived this monstrous practice! God bless you for your courage in speaking out.

  • @terracotta5153
    @terracotta5153 Před rokem +4

    The relisience of this woman is incredible. The amount of pain and fear and trauma... THANK YOU for sharing your darkest moments.

  • @miriamcaceres2610
    @miriamcaceres2610 Před rokem +349

    It is so sad to sit here in my privileged world and watch this. Shamsa is beyond brave and her resilience is reflected in her sharing her tragic experiences with so much grace. Her wit and emotional intelligence abounds. Her daughter is extremely fortunate to have her.

    • @marilynwillett804
      @marilynwillett804 Před rokem +20

      NOT HAVING THAT DONE NOTHING TO DO WITH BEING PRIVILEGED.

    • @bentobin9606
      @bentobin9606 Před rokem

      lol i gurantee u live in a country where genital mutilation occurs

    • @florenceblackman8081
      @florenceblackman8081 Před rokem +3

      Worked for Social Services in the UK for 25+ years, been on training programmes and are aware of the many cultural practices but listening to this young lady's personal childhood experience of FGM moved me to tears😭 must have been soooo traumatising, to say the least, for these young innocent children. SMH

    • @vickilarouge4855
      @vickilarouge4855 Před 4 měsíci +3

      This has nothing to do with privilege. Give your head a shake.

    • @miriamcaceres2610
      @miriamcaceres2610 Před 4 měsíci

      @@vickilarouge4855 I guess we then have different definition of privilige but that's OK! I'm shaking my head for a different reason than what I think you are suggesting

  • @Breznak
    @Breznak Před rokem +410

    I'm watching this while brushing my teeth. Beeing a father of three, it is so hard to look in the mirror, while she describes what people that were supposed to look after her allowed to be done her. I can't look myself in the eye even I had never been a part of anything like that. Inhumane just isn't strong enough word. Edit: Forgot to mention: my middle daughter has had her 6th birthday last month...

    • @RammusTF
      @RammusTF Před rokem

      I feel you man. I was actually brushing my teeth as well while watching it 😂 and I kept thinking howwwww could anyone put their child through this. It's just brainwashing. Sounds like the entire society is brainwashed. Actually in the USA almost all male children are circumcised and that's also genital mutilation but because it's "white or 1st world culture" it's just accepted as not a big issue

    • @Breznak
      @Breznak Před rokem +16

      @@RammusTF I have to say that shocked me! At first I couldn't believe it, so I did a quick intenret search an it lookls like it's still around a half of newborn US males are circumcised!!! It's not even close to being as bad as the horror those girls are going through (given they're much older and percieving it all and it's much more invasive precedure), but still those are some horrid numbers.

    • @nicole_silvers
      @nicole_silvers Před rokem +5

      @@Breznak Circumcising is totally different. There isn't much feeling in the flap of skin they remove from a boy's penis. My son didn't even cry when he was circumcised, didn't even flinch! He just laid there looking around and acted like nothing happened. There is a practice that's far less common that is male genital mutilation, but it's totally different from circumcision.

    • @innominatum9906
      @innominatum9906 Před rokem +4

      @@nicole_silvers Theres still pain in the skin though, lets be real. Often men/boys are taking pain medication in the days following the procedure. Circumcised men and boys will also have lost some feeling at the tip of their penis.
      This is all done because of tradition and the children have no say in it. It should be banned as a procedure for kids.

  • @riotbae_9000
    @riotbae_9000 Před měsícem

    Thank you for sharing this. I have been familiar with this for a long time, but never heard someone talk about it in depth. Listening to this was hard, but it is the LEAST I can do.. not to turn away from something so horrifying and real. Thank you so much for standing up and giving leople the opportunity to do so for themselves and others.

  • @gkdimovska
    @gkdimovska Před 11 měsíci +3

    What a beautiful, strong woman. I'm glad she spoke out. The voices of survivors are the most powerful.

  • @BriannaL0ve13
    @BriannaL0ve13 Před rokem +278

    This is enough to give you nightmares for the rest of your life. I don’t think I could ever complain about my period again. This is so heartbreaking. She is so strong, and I can’t believe she is able to tell her story.

    • @user-uh9bl6lg8w
      @user-uh9bl6lg8w Před rokem +2

      Its I sslaaam and Qu rran

    • @___asia
      @___asia Před rokem +8

      @@user-uh9bl6lg8w its not

    • @ikranahmed-jh2tw
      @ikranahmed-jh2tw Před rokem +11

      @@user-uh9bl6lg8w It's actually not. It's cultural and predates both Islam and Christianity. No religion commands it or recommends it at all. However, the cultures that practice it justify it through religion despite it.

    • @apekshasitaula3875
      @apekshasitaula3875 Před 2 měsíci

      @@user-uh9bl6lg8wit’s literally not in the Quran but ok

  • @13lilsykos
    @13lilsykos Před rokem +369

    Omg... When she talked about her period staying inside, I experienced something similar with my periods. I was in horrible pain every month (and I've been though some painful things. I've had 76 surgeries in my 40 years of living) because I wasn't bleeding out but only very little. Most was staying inside, thanks to endometriosis. I was enough pain that I starting hurting myself to have something different to focus on. I can only imagine what she went through. I rarely praise people for things because it seems like this day and age, everyone gets called a hero for the most minor thing. However, THIS woman is a hero. She's been through shit most of us wouldn't even want to imagine and I ain't even got to the second video... I'm literally in awe of her and her strength.

    • @allthingsharbor
      @allthingsharbor Před rokem +14

      I had surgery in my early 40s to remove an ovarian tumor. My doctor, when reviewing with me the surgery and diagnosis (not cancer, Praise God!) a couple of weeks later, asked if I would sign a document to allow her to share the images from inside my abdomen. This 50-something gyn surgeon said I had the worst case of endometriosis she had ever seen and she wanted to share the images with other surgeons and specialists. All those years when I had commented or asked for medical or other advice about my monthly pain, I'd never been taken seriously. I choose to believe that people were not being deliberately cruel but rather had no understanding of what I was enduring. I cannot imagine the horror and trauma this young woman suffered, and her's WAS deliberate.

    • @yellowmoon4564
      @yellowmoon4564 Před rokem +11

      so crazy just because of men..

    • @nicole_silvers
      @nicole_silvers Před rokem +1

      @@yellowmoon4564 Endometriosis is a medical condition, you can't blame men for that!

    • @jonathanray7931
      @jonathanray7931 Před 11 měsíci +1

      @Nicki Silvers I am thinking @Yellow Moon was probably talking about FGM instead of endometriosis.
      I could very well be wrong about that and maybe they were talking about endometriosis. Idk but just a thought that they were probably talking about FGM.

    • @13lilsykos
      @13lilsykos Před 11 měsíci

      @@nicole_silvers - Just like @Jonathan Ray said, @Yellow Moon had to be talking about FGM... of which men are directly responsible. I can't imagine women had that idea and I also feel like if these men had to have one testicle scraped off to "keep them in line" and perhaps a brutal circumcision with a sharpened rock, they might feel differently about this barbaric practice.

  • @mariettehabermaus7827
    @mariettehabermaus7827 Před rokem +7

    All my respect and my sympathy goes to this wonderful, brave and courageous young women!
    Makes me cry to hear her story!

  • @janijoubert3112
    @janijoubert3112 Před rokem +9

    Watching this made me feel so grateful for the flaws I have with myself, and what I have with my body in general. Fgm is so cruel, she is such a strong person

  • @caitlinfarmer4222
    @caitlinfarmer4222 Před rokem +195

    I dont think a video has ever made me feel physically ill as this one has. Im physically and mentally overwhelmed by the horror this young woman had to endure at such a young age at the hands of people she trusted. She speaks with such eloquence and grace but the words she speaks do not reflect the calm she projects. I wish this terror on no one and I hope this young woman knows how truly strong she is and what an inspiration she is as well. Best wishes to her on her new life journey and endeavors.

    • @charlottehayward5943
      @charlottehayward5943 Před 5 měsíci

      The only way can help is to press for laws in America to make this barbaric mutilation illegal with very strong penalties no matter your religion or customs.

  • @FortuitousOwl
    @FortuitousOwl Před rokem +130

    I’m honestly so upset that no doctor ever said anything or tried to help her! She is so incredibly strong for surviving this and coming forward and talking about it!

    • @margaretr5701
      @margaretr5701 Před rokem +14

      The doctor's were trained to respect cultural differences, regardless of if they thought It was right or wrong. As a child at the time, her parent would have been present, so the Dr would have had to challenge the mother, and get the parent's permission to put right, the wrong. But the parent's didn't see any wrongdoing. How do you see a resolution under these circumstances?
      Also, this was in earlier times, western doctors hadn't seen much, if any, FGM at the time.
      I will keep in mind, that this lovely lady and many more like her, received reconstructive surgery where possible, and other surgeries to relieve the pain. All caused by family rituals, inflicting terrible trauma and ongoing pain.
      I don't feel the doctor's who helped (and freely) receive enough recognition for their surgical help.

    • @FortuitousOwl
      @FortuitousOwl Před rokem

      @@margaretr5701 fuck respecting cultural differences when you are literally physically mutilated. Also, you cannot argue they were respecting cultural differences and also they had never seen FGM before. If they had never seen it, it would be extremely alarming and they would have said something.

  • @susanweston8901
    @susanweston8901 Před 5 měsíci +1

    Thankyou for being brave enough to share your story with us x

  • @user-y6l1owsk4y
    @user-y6l1owsk4y Před rokem +43

    The way she described her experiences were so clear to me. I can't imagine the excruciating and continuous pain she have been through. She's so brave and I just hope only good things happen to her.

  • @luticia
    @luticia Před rokem +138

    I need a break after only 4 minutes.
    No words. I don‘t have any words left beside I cannot imagine this kind of pain. This is physical and emotional torture for the rest of their lifes. Highes penalty for their abusers.

    • @NathalieOfficial
      @NathalieOfficial Před rokem +4

      Me too. I needed multiple breaks to watch the whole video. She’s such a brave and well spoken woman. The misogyny of this world is just too much…

    • @zipinha
      @zipinha Před rokem +2

      Exactly the same thing to me

    • @yvonnedacres9275
      @yvonnedacres9275 Před rokem +1

      I can't imagine your blood wants to come out and can't how's that possible

  • @WorldVisionStory
    @WorldVisionStory Před rokem +385

    “It’s another level of terror to know that the people that were supposed to protect you were the ones doing this to you.” 💔
    What she went through is absolutely devastating. Not only did her family fail to protect her, but she also wasn't offered enough support to heal later in life. It takes so much courage for survivors to break the silence and share their stories. Hopefully, it encourages more to talk more openly about the horrors of FGM so that no other girl has to live in shame or fear. It takes a world to end FGM 🌍

  • @PeaceLoveUnityRespect
    @PeaceLoveUnityRespect Před 3 měsíci +1

    I read a novel when I was in elementary school about all of this and I was beyond shocked and to see someone bravely portray themselves on this platform is beyond my capacity. You are stronger than anyone I've ever met

  • @patriciascully962
    @patriciascully962 Před 2 měsíci +1

    You indeed are a survivor. What you were put through is unthinkable!!!! You are truly an inspiration for others who have endured this trauma. Bless you 🙏🙏🙏🙏

  • @RowanWarren78
    @RowanWarren78 Před rokem +245

    I've seen a lot of comments regarding the fact that women often carry out this terrible procedure. It's not as simple as "women hating women" as another commenter said. This is about fear; a cultural fear of women's sexuality. In some of these cultures, it is believed that a woman who can experience sexual pleasure will cheat on her husband. A woman who can experience pleasure is an object of suspicion. It started with this assertion being made by men. Later on, women who were indoctrinated to believe this trope, went along with the assertion made by the men in their community, and took on the role of mutilator. The shame of having a clitoris was made part of the culture. There is a quote, the origin of which I can't remember, that says "some women kiss the chains that bind them". This is because they have been programmed to agree with the idea that an opinionated, independent, or sexually liberated woman is dangerous.

    • @sf6510
      @sf6510 Před rokem +28

      Well said, but please know that not all somalis are not like this. My mum unfortunately had it done but she refused for me to have it done. She mentioned that when I was about 6/7, a lady asked her to put me out of my shame. She literally wanted to fight her. Also, this has nothing to do with out religion and entirely cultural, it came from the pharaohs and that culture was passed down (I'm assuming due to trade) across neighbouring countries.

    • @RowanWarren78
      @RowanWarren78 Před rokem +11

      @@sf6510 thanks for your input, and you are so right.

    • @brigittea5110
      @brigittea5110 Před rokem +1

      Also, if a girl looses her virginity , she can not be married of to the highest bidder. FGM ensures that girls in puperty don't become interested in the opposite sex, so they don't loose their virginity or get pregnant from another teen or adult male. Because men would only marry a "clean" virgin girl who had undergone FMG, women do this to their daughters. Otherwise families miss out on the money they get for their daughters and they have to keep her and feed her for ever.
      Education for all children, Equal Rights for woman and Human Rights for every human is the solution!

    • @brigittea5110
      @brigittea5110 Před rokem +7

      How closely women clutch the very chains that bind them!
      Margaret Mitchell, Gone with the wind
      🙋‍♀️

    • @RowanWarren78
      @RowanWarren78 Před rokem +3

      @@brigittea5110 yes, I find that phrase comes in handy often. My husband reminded me of this saying just last night while discussing a similar dynamic.

  • @Badgalr1na
    @Badgalr1na Před rokem +391

    Thank you for bringing more awareness of this inhumane procedure🙏🏻

    • @kristinmeyer489
      @kristinmeyer489 Před rokem

      I cannot begin to understand how so many people conflate the removal of skin with the removal, and mutilation of ORGANS. That is the difference between the procedure done BY MODERN MEDICINE to males, and the barbaric, unsanitary, traumatizing, and life impacting procedures done to females, NOT by the modern medical community.

    • @calvinsmyth
      @calvinsmyth Před rokem +17

      In Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN there is the second largest community of Somalians outside of Somalia itself. The results of the genital mutilations seen in the hospital were sickening. The women had many infections and the appearance of the wounds/scars were horrific. Sometimes the scarring made it difficult to catheterize the bladder with a Foley catheter for surgery.
      These mutilations were at first condemned, but as insane liberalism and progressive values took hold of The Twin Cities healthcare providers were warned not to feel sorry for these mutilated females or to, in any way, see or speak of the mutilations in a negative way with the threat of losing our jobs. We were to see the mutilations of Somalia females as only a cultural difference. The procedures continue in Michigan and The Twin Cities.

    • @Vaginaninja
      @Vaginaninja Před rokem

      Over 100 boys will die this year in USA because of circumcision.

    • @calvinsmyth
      @calvinsmyth Před rokem

      @@Vaginaninja Less than the number of children who die after having a common surgery in that age group - tonsillectomy.
      Over 600 children die in car accidents. Nearly 20,000 are injured, many crippled for life. Will you ban children from being inside cars based on the statistics?
      Over 2000 children die in accidents at home.
      You mix apples and oranges. The clitoris is the equivalent to the penis. Males are not having their penises removed. They can still have orgasms.

    • @calvinsmyth
      @calvinsmyth Před rokem

      @@fritnat Key facts directly from the WHO site:
      Female genital mutilation (FGM) involves the partial or total removal of external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons.
      The practice has no health benefits for girls and women.
      FGM can cause severe bleeding and problems urinating, and later cysts, infections, as well as complications in childbirth and increased risk of newborn deaths.
      More than 200 million girls and women alive today have undergone FGM in 30 countries in Africa, the Middle East and Asia where FGM is practiced(1).
      FGM is mostly carried out on young girls between infancy and age 15.
      FGM is a violation of the human rights of girls and women.
      There is evidence suggesting greater involvement of health care providers in the practice. This is known as medicalization.
      The World Health Organization (WHO) is opposed to all types of FGM, and is opposed to health care providers performing FGM.
      Treatment of the health complications of FGM in 27 high prevalence countries is estimated to cost 1.4 billion USD per year and is projected to rise to 2.3 billion USD by 2047 if no action is taken .
      Just doing a simple, painless, easy Goggle search can start you down the path of being better educated on your own.

  • @possumbold
    @possumbold Před 5 měsíci +4

    You’re an amazing woman to be able to tell this story. I’m so sorry for your suffering at such a young age, and the impact it’s has had on your life! You are a Superwoman.,

  • @blaireeyip
    @blaireeyip Před 10 měsíci +20

    she is such a strong and brave woman, the amount of pain she had to go through is unbearable. FGM is a sick ritual and is so sadistic, the fact that so many girls have to go through this is unbearable

  • @victoriar9728
    @victoriar9728 Před rokem +79

    I heard about FGM years ago from a classmate. She is a beautiful woman from Somalia, and she told me that she is scared to get married because what's the point if she can't even enjoy the marriage union and also she is scared of the pain that she will feel from this intimate act. I often wonder how she is now. I lost contact with her since 26 years ago. My heart bleeds for these women.

  • @deanyoung4847
    @deanyoung4847 Před rokem +243

    How can a so called parent and loved one put your child through this? Absolutely horrific!! What a strong and brave lady to speak so openly about this ❤

    • @georginacook1850
      @georginacook1850 Před rokem +41

      Especially the women whom had experienced it themselves to do it to their own babies

    • @ethancharlette925
      @ethancharlette925 Před rokem +11

      that's not how it works. This is not an act which an individual came up with their own. It's a cultural act. Blame the heard not the sheep following it.

    • @Ah__ah__ah__ah.
      @Ah__ah__ah__ah. Před rokem +6

      circumcision too is awful

    • @almaefogo
      @almaefogo Před rokem +4

      @@Ah__ah__ah__ah. Male circumsision is bad when done by some religious culture iirc the Jews did it a lot, but in some cases some man have to get a circumsision because of health reasons or to be able to have sex.

    • @Vic-ek1fv
      @Vic-ek1fv Před rokem

      @@almaefogo Sorry dude, but that information is wrong. Some doctors in countries where male circumcision is normal may recommend to reduce the risk of bacteria, but “to be able to have sex” is never a reason. In my country only the Protestants and Jews get it, the rest never does and they never experience any health issue because of that

  • @3isactuallyalot
    @3isactuallyalot Před 6 měsíci +13

    This fills me with great horror.....
    I feel like we as women have to stand up every day from now for the rights of all the girls and women around the world being surpressed and mutilated and killed and so on.....
    I wish you all the love and all the joy you could possibly think of. Thank you for speaking up!

  • @jaynesimon6993
    @jaynesimon6993 Před měsícem +2

    This young lady is so elegant and is such a great speaker on this horrific practice. Thank you for sharing your nightmare with us all. I pray that you are okay now.

  • @christopherfournier5499
    @christopherfournier5499 Před rokem +118

    This is absolutely horrible. What the hell is wrong with these people? How could anyone do such a thing to a poor little defenseless child? It's just sickening! Shamsa is a beautiful and brilliant young woman who deserves the best! I wish her the very best. Thank you for sharing such a private and painful story. Just makes me respect all women even more than I already do now. Shamsa is such a warm and wonderful person. I hope she is doing well today.

  • @isapurkote
    @isapurkote Před rokem +272

    cried all the way through. yes, this might be cultural, but it’s also plain fucking evil.

    • @flaviaanamaria5826
      @flaviaanamaria5826 Před rokem

      thats nothing cultural, it's men imposing absurd stuff on women to feel better about themselves

    • @florenceblackman8081
      @florenceblackman8081 Před rokem +17

      Indeed, simply put 'EVIL'

    • @maigokonekochan
      @maigokonekochan Před rokem +9

      so many awful things are excused under this whole it’s a cultural thing pretext. just because it’s culture, it doesn’t make it ok at times…

    • @apekshasitaula3875
      @apekshasitaula3875 Před 2 měsíci

      Many things about many cultures are evil. Culture doesn’t mean good it just means the norm or the traditions of the ethnicity etc. this is sick I agree it’s plain evil :(

    • @user-cx7wf4xv6x
      @user-cx7wf4xv6x Před 2 měsíci

      It can't be justified by saying it's cultural. It's pure evil. Cultural relativism is flawed. There ARE truly morally evil practices even in a cultural context. And outsiders can objectively say certain "cultural" practices are wrong and should never happen.

  • @carleyfaucheux2469
    @carleyfaucheux2469 Před 11 měsíci +2

    Thank you for sharing your story. Although so hard to hear, so incredibly important to hear.

  • @davethomas2605
    @davethomas2605 Před rokem +3

    Christ.... How you have gone through that and remained so level headed? I wish you all the best Shamsa!

  • @flix3o3
    @flix3o3 Před rokem +263

    I have so much respect for sharing this, unbelievable that this is normal for some people.

    • @Vaginaninja
      @Vaginaninja Před rokem +8

      Hundreds of thousands of American boys are mutilated every year. I find it absolutely barbaric and bizarre that Americans do that

    • @classicalteacher
      @classicalteacher Před rokem +7

      @@Vaginaninja Not really. It's not barbaric, it's hygienic. My friends that weren't uncut had to make sure to keep a cleaning regime against infection. My friend's boyfriend was circumcised in his 20s. He said sex was better after the surgery. That's the only evidence and actual proof for circumcision some guys might need: better sex! Yep, there are lots of nerve endings in the foreskin. But that's all theoretical and not proven to make sex better (even though it seems like a correct assumption).

    • @ticiat5832
      @ticiat5832 Před rokem +8

      @@Vaginaninja that’s completely different then fgm

    • @SRBOMBONICA86
      @SRBOMBONICA86 Před rokem

      @@classicalteacher no one is circumsized in Europe except Muslim migrants ,never heard of uncut men having any issues ,you Americans are strange people

    • @silvias550
      @silvias550 Před rokem

      What do you expect from primitive people? And they come to Western countries saying they are proud of their culture

  • @paolagrando5079
    @paolagrando5079 Před rokem +269

    Obviously, this has to be solved at the root of the problem with women and men advocating against it in the countries were it happens. But at the same time, as she pointed out, the health personnel should be trained to face patient who had such horrible mutilation, so to help them both physically and mentally.

    • @classicalteacher
      @classicalteacher Před rokem +1

      The root of the problem is Muslims. It is an evil cult that destroys everything it touches.

    • @paolagrando5079
      @paolagrando5079 Před rokem +1

      @@thehonourabledoglasmcpoodl1778 I can see that unfortunately happening.

  • @kinkyd011
    @kinkyd011 Před 3 měsíci +1

    this woman has a GIANT ANGEL behind her,, not only did she survive the procedure after all the casualties that happened among it.. butshe is also living to tell the tale. and she has a solid mind about her reguardless of all the hardships she has had to undergo. her positive attitude remains after everything...

  • @stuffwelike7184
    @stuffwelike7184 Před 4 měsíci +2

    Ty you for the courage to tell your story. I can only imagine how hard it is to share this horrible thing.

  • @sahra8013
    @sahra8013 Před rokem +69

    she is only 29 and this happened to her, this was a massive wake up call that millions of women go through hell just for being a women around the world STILL. Hurts seeing and hearing this as a fellow Somali women I wish her all the best❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

  • @paigemurray9578
    @paigemurray9578 Před rokem +194

    i am so glad that she’s sharing her story with everyone she knows. it’s so great to be heard!

  • @rubytaylor5258
    @rubytaylor5258 Před rokem +3

    So so heartbreaking she’s so brave for talking about it and bringing awareness to the subject

  • @Bee-ly4gx
    @Bee-ly4gx Před 6 měsíci +6

    I first heard about FGM in 1983 when I watched a programme about it on the television. I remember when it was because I was on holiday having just left school. I trained as a nurse in 1987 and worked in that field for over 30 years. FGM would be mentioned to us occasionally in training sessions but I did not know about reconstructive surgery until I saw something about it on CZcams last year! Thank you to this lady and others like her for sharing and educating us.

  • @cillamoke
    @cillamoke Před rokem +84

    I can't stop crying. I remember reading an article about female genital mutilation as a young teen in the 80's when the procedure was done in some village with a rusty razor on a rock. I'm almost 50 now and this barbaric tradition still exists

  • @annabellfenby5312
    @annabellfenby5312 Před rokem +71

    This practice truly disgusts me. It is absolutely nothing short of abuse. Shamsa is incredibly brave for speaking out.

  • @rotfvchs
    @rotfvchs Před 5 měsíci +4

    such a strong woman!!! i wish her the best from the bottom of my heart!

  • @dorkyraccoon
    @dorkyraccoon Před 5 měsíci +4

    i also had an FGM when i was little, when i was like a baby i think, i dont know. i just knew recently i had it done when my mother told me about it after discussing with my sister who had a baby girl that my mom want her baby to get it too, and my sister refused to make her own baby go through what me and my sister did. it was devastating knowing that my own mother agreed on putting me and my sister in such a horrible procedure, for the sake of "religious belief" and "purity".

    • @twukibxnny
      @twukibxnny Před 4 měsíci +2

      I am so so so sorry you had to go through that, and the fact you lived your life unaware thinking it was normal because of how young you were is awful. I really hope you and your sister are doing ok and are able to recover well, sending my thoughts💕

  • @jennam8401
    @jennam8401 Před rokem +128

    I'm so sorry, this is beyond awful. I am in the UK and you hear about FGM and how to spot possible sufferers when you do safeguarding procedures to work in schools - I have to say that the sheer reality of it described here by Shamsa is beyond anything that I could have imagined possible. Thank you for sharing your experience, you are so brave.

    • @oppaloopa3698
      @oppaloopa3698 Před rokem +2

      Are medical professionals not taught the same? This is not the first time I’ve heard a survivor say UK doctors completely dismissed her.

    • @adamsharp201
      @adamsharp201 Před rokem

      @@oppaloopa3698 uk doctors have nothing to do with cultures from other countries don't dare bring us into this.

  • @bobcharlie2337
    @bobcharlie2337 Před rokem +79

    You know what, when she became of age no doctor or health care physician told her anything. Knowing that she was in pain and struggling with FGN. They failed her. Doctors!! Please don't be afraid to ask. Please just ask.

  • @celinelubelski
    @celinelubelski Před rokem +1

    This is beyond any words that could express how sorry I am to hear this. God bless these young women.

  • @tlwf.system
    @tlwf.system Před měsícem

    I am so beyond proud of this lady for sharing with the world about FGM. The world needs to know so something can change. Heartbreaking 💔 such a beautiful and inspiring soul

  • @nicolaking1205
    @nicolaking1205 Před rokem +30

    I hate some cultures, really hate them. This is a beautiful eloquent woman who has become a strong woman in spite of her experiences. I am a victim of sexual abuse as a child and luckily I have also become a strong survivor. Shamsa, you are a role model!

    • @ftckaplan213
      @ftckaplan213 Před rokem

      Genital mutilation is a cultural thing in some parts of the world. Nothing to do with Islam, its actually illegal.

    • @cameronhowe1110
      @cameronhowe1110 Před 6 měsíci +2

      I think you mean you hate some cultural traditions. Saying you hate their culture is offensive to the women who suffered through this.

  • @westy3783
    @westy3783 Před rokem +27

    ‘Yes the practice IS, but I am NOT’
    Powerful.

  • @leonaober8849
    @leonaober8849 Před 5 měsíci +3

    Im in tears listening to your story. I am sorry and appalled. Totally shocked this was done. Cruel and inhumane custom to force on young girls. You are brave to speak out and tell your story. It cant be easy to relive that.

  • @sandralutz-rodriguez2864
    @sandralutz-rodriguez2864 Před 5 měsíci

    Shamsa you were 6 years old. I can't even fathom what you endured. Thank YOU for being brave anbd speaking up!

  • @kateferioloangeld
    @kateferioloangeld Před rokem +34

    I’m so sorry. I broke into tears just hearing your voice describing the pain in the introduction.

  • @sarahs.2913
    @sarahs.2913 Před rokem +17

    I've been in Healthcare for 12 years, and yes, the threat of being accused of being a racist and having your entire life destroyed is absolutely real.

  • @FiaBoomSchack
    @FiaBoomSchack Před 11 měsíci +2

    She is so unbelievably strong!!! Girl if you read this we are so many people behind you!!! ♥️🙏♥️