The women that have been genitally mutilated experience severe trauma. painful intercourse. are at highee" risk of AIDS. and experience the trauma again with each childbirth. and all for a practice that has no medical purpose. The practice of FGM stems from an intricate mix of traditional African societys perceptions of gender roles. sex. health practices. local customs. superstition. and religious traditions. The net result is total control over a womans sexuality and reproductive system. As communities of African immigrants from nations where FGM is practiced grow in the United States. we must make it clearthey and their rich and proud cultures are welcome in the United States. but the practice of FGM is not. For that reason. Representative BARBARAROSE COLLINS and I are introducing legislation to prohibit FGM in the United States.
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immigrants