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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:Post female circumcision: a call for collective unmasking
Author:Khamasi, Wanjiku
Year:2009
Periodical:East African Journal of Peace and Human Rights
Volume:15
Issue:1
Pages:158-170
Language:English
Geographic term:Kenya
Subjects:female circumcision
rites of passage
women
Abstract:This paper, which advocates the banning of female circumcision, is informed by three theories, namely the standpoint theory, philosophical hermeneutics and the feminist theory, as well as by the author's lived experiences. The majority of the indigenous ethnic groups in Kenya uphold female and male circumcision as a rite of passage. For decades, female circumcision has been a closely guarded ritual in the communities that practise it under what can be referred to as a 'hidden policy'. Undergoing the ritual came with privileges, including enhanced social status. Kenya's government banned female circumcision for girls under 18 years through the 2001 Children's Act, thus privileging the voices of the uncircumcised, thereby, unfortunately, reinforcing 'otherness'. Furthermore, the formerly celebratory occasion has changed to a secret movement, making it difficult for the government to monitor. Because the practice is culturally entrenched, there is also a need for continued culturally sensitive dialogue between anti-female circumcision activists and supporters of the practice. Women/mothers have to lead and actively steer the transition from cut to uncut communities (at ethnic levels). The paper suggests a conceptual model based on what bell hooks refers to as conversation, dedication to truth and collective unmasking. Notes, ref., sum. [ASC Leiden abstract]
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