History & Mission

Global Woman P.E.A.C.E. Foundation was founded on the principles of ending violence and injustices against women and girls. The mission of the organization is to empower women and girls through education to eradicate gender based violence, with special emphasis on female genital mutilation/cutting. Founded in 2010, the organization, Global Woman merged with another organization called P.E.A.C.E. (People Everywhere All Created Equal); the name was officially changed to Global Woman P.E.A.C.E. Foundation. In 2012, the organization received its 501c3 tax exempt status from the Internal Revenue Service under the new name.

Unique Strengths & Assets

There are several organizations in the United States that advocate against various individual types of gender based violence (GBV). However Global Woman P.E.A.C.E. Foundation is unique in its advocacy against female genital mutilation (FGM). The organization raises awareness through events and the distribution of literature about the violent acts against women and girls. The Executive Director of the organization authored a book in 2014 about female genital mutilation, from which all proceeds and royalties are donated to the organization as support against the practice of female genital mutilation. On November 8, 2014 the organization made history when it was joined by several like-minded organizations from around the country on the Washington National Mall in the first “Walk to End FGM” in the country.

Facts & Statistics

Female genital mutilation/cutting is partial or total removal of the female external genitalia for non-medical reasons. External genitals include the clitoris, labia, pubis (the fatty tissue over the pubic bone), and the urethral and vaginal openings. The practice of FGM is often called “female circumcision” (FC), implying that it is similar to male circumcision. However, the degree of cutting is much more extensive, often impairing a woman’s sexual and reproductive functions.

Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C) is internationally recognized as a violation of the human rights of girls and women. In Africa, an estimated 92 million girls from 7 years of age and above have undergone Female Genital Mutilation. Around the world, at least 5 girls are mutilated/cut every hour. An estimated 100 million and 140 million girls and women worldwide are living with the consequences of FGM. 30 million girls under age 15 are still at risk in the world.

FGM/C is currently a state crime in 23 states in the U.S., it is also a federal crime of child abuse according to the Federal Government. At least 28 African countries are known to practice FGM/C. The largest numbers of African immigrants are found in Virginia, California, New York, Texas, Minnesota, Washington State and Maryland. According to reports, Maryland and Virginia are top destinations for African-born immigrants.

507,000 girls and women in the U.S. have either undergone or are at risk of FGM/C, according to the Population Reference Bureau.