Between Irua and "Female Genital Mutilation": Feminist Human Rights Discourse and the Cultural Divide

This article discusses the tensions and conflicts between different feminist approaches to female genital surgery (FGS). In their campaign to eliminate FGS, Western feminists have adopted a human rights-based, cross-cultural approach. The author presents the arguments advanced by Western feminists to support their claim that FGS constitutes a human rights violation. The author then presents the position of African feminists, many of whom oppose FGS, yet are critical of intervention by Western feminists. Bringing together Western and African discourse, the author explains the position of African American feminists on FGS. Finally, suggestions are offered on ways to create constructive cross-cultural engagement on the elimination of FGS. [Descriptors: Reproductive Rights - Female Genital Cutting, International]