Former Cultural Ambassador Juli Endee says there is no need for trouble, she wants peace.
Monrovia, September 12/ Former Cultural Ambassador Juli Endee has reacted to a New Dawn publication in which some traditional women from Nimba County threatened to return to the practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) if she is not reinstated.
In her letter, she wrote:
My attention has been drawn to an article published in the New Dawn Newspaper today, referencing traditional women from Nimba County threatening to resume the practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) if I am not reinstated as Culture Ambassador. I would like to state categorically that I do not agree with their position, nor do I support it.
The practice of FGM was banned by the government of Liberia due to its harmful effects on women, who are often victims of this practice. FGM has been factually proven to violate the fundamental rights of women, many of whom are forced to partake in this ritual against their will. It has also been shown to compromise the safety of female participants, both women and girls.
As a lifelong advocate and proponent of women’s rights, I have supported and participated in efforts that led to the ban on FGM and will continue to support the prohibition of this harmful practice. I also believe in the rule of law and will continue to uphold and respect it. My work with the traditional leaders and zoes on FGM was under the banner of the Liberia Crusaders for Peace, and Traditional Queen of Liberia who’s coronation was performed by the (Daphannah)my ancestors, some of whom have passed and some of whom are still here and also as an advocate for the rights of women and children in Liberia.
As I stated when I spoke at the UN Assembly on FGM, I made a commitment to the world that I would continue working with all zoes to ensure initiation without mutilation. I remain committed to that.i support practices that uphold the dignity and positive values of our traditions and remain committed to it for as long as such values do not contravene our laws and tenants of busic human rights.
I appreciate the support of the traditional women of Nimba County, but I would urge them to continue supporting the law banning FGM. Let’s save the lives of our children. The “Initiation Without Mutilation” campaign continues!
