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| Columbus viewing of "Half the Sky" |
I joined
Delta Gamma alumnae, Epsilon-Ohio State and Zeta Rho-Ohio collegians and Kappa
Kappa Gamma women in Columbus, Ohio, for a viewing event of “Half the Sky.” As
a nurse, I was shocked to learn that female genital mutilation (FGM) is a
tradition in some parts of the world, especially in Somaliland. FGM amplifies
the risk of death during pregnancy, yet women in Somaliland are still
performing it on other women. It is said to be excruciatingly painful, but so
far ingrained into the culture that it has become normal and profitable.
Mothers who would not wish it upon themselves demand their sons marry a
“circumcised” woman. I was truly inspired by Edna Adan’s story featured in
“Half the Sky,” because she courageously stands up to her own culture’s
tradition and uses her knowledge and license as a nurse to advocate for the
good of the entire community. One in 12 women should not be dying during
childbirth and the fact that the culture cannot quickly recognize this issue is
truly frightening. Adan started her own University Hospital in Somaliland in
order to teach women how to be proper nurses and to spread her wisdom.
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| Katie Corradini, CDC |
While
watching “Half the Sky,” it became very clear to me that education is key to
survival everywhere. Women need to be educated in order to feel empowered. We
would not know the extent of these issues if it were not for the courage and
strength exemplified in each woman telling her story during the documentary. Adan
is truly a conduit for hope and her courage challenged me to learn more about
these issues and do what I can to eradicate this practice.
By Katie Corradini, Epsilon Gamma-Virginia
Collegiate Development Consultant
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