ICE, FBI recognize International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation

WASHINGTON — Feb. 6 marks the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the FBI join U.S. and foreign government partners, non-governmental organizations and local communities to call for eradication of the practice.

This day serves as an opportunity to reflect on victims who have suffered from female genital mutilation/cutting, including many women and girls who have died or suffered lifelong health complications from the practice. The day also renews a global commitment to the health and well-being of all women, girls and communities by eliminating the practice.

Female genital mutilation/cutting is a federal crime, and any involvement in committing this crime is a serious human rights violation which may result in imprisonment and potential removal from the U.S. Individuals suspected of female genital mutilation/cutting, including sending girls overseas to be cut, may be investigated by the Human Rights Violators and War Crimes Center and prosecuted accordingly.

Anyone who has information about an individual who is suspected of assisting in this crime is urged to call the toll-free ICE tip line at (866) 347-2423 or complete the ICE online tip form or the FBI online tip form. All are staffed around the clock, and tips may be provided anonymously.

For more information about the practice of female genital mutilation/cutting, view thisvideo from the U.S. Department of State or visit the United Nations’ Zero Tolerance Day website.

Also visit the Health and Human Services Office of Women’s Health website for more information about 2016 grant opportunities for nongovernmental organizations which address health care or prevention services for victims of female genital mutilation/cutting in the U.S.