NYT Magazine
I have been waiting to read this (and the other articles) after learning about the edition a while ago.
The first time I met a victim of female genital mutilation was during medical school – my Peds Surgery rotation. The young woman was lying on the O.R. table. The Anesthesiologist was ready to place a urine catheter and motioned for me to join her. There are no words to describe what I felt. Anger? Not even close.
Over time, this has become a subject I feel incredibly passionate about – the abuse of women, but particularly children (both domestically & globally). In fact, I’m advising medical students who are organizing a special project dedicated to clinicians interfacing with victims of human trafficking and sexual exploitation. NYC, to no surprise, is a ‘major hub’ for identifying and treating such individuals.
Some research information from ‘The Untouchables” (a term ‘affectionately’ given from a friend working in the I-Banking world to GS).
jill
Thanks for sharing that article Di. It had so many issues of which I wasn’t aware. Have you read Banker to the Poor? Its about the microloan program and they talk a lot about empowering women and how giving the women the financial stability is what changes the lives of each family.
I’d love to hear more about the projects your involved in.
kristi
great outcome from a tragic beginning. thanks for sharing. I often wonder if the micro lending world will ever give men another try. Can’t wait to see you guys again.
Di
Thanks for your comments ladies! I’m so glad you had a chance to read the article. DId you also read the one highlighting the girl from Afghanistan?
I find it fascinating and hopeful that women are considered a very important ‘solution’ to the complex social and economic problems mentioned. One of my favorite sections – the comment by Bill Gates to a Saudi Arabian audience.
Jill, when we get this project completed we’ll have to catch up (over gelato!!) I’ve been meaning to read M. Yunus’ story – so inspiring. I heard an interview with him on NPR a long time ago, and was so impressed by his decision to lend to women. Kristi, I wonder the same thing. It seems like too much of a generalization, yet in probability true under the circumstances written, that women invest in education & healthcare while men squander their earnings on alcohol & vice.