Episode 2: What People Don’t Know About ‘Khatna’, its Secrecy + Propagation

Farzana identifies with the Bohra Community that has become known for ‘khatna’, which is a form of surreptitious female genital cutting that happens around the age of seven. As a khatna survivor herself, she speak about her transformation into becoming an activist, breaking the silence of female genital cutting.

As Farzana’s personal story unfolds, she uncovers for us how she has moved beyond the traumatic moment, while honouring her process. She talks specifically about how she was impacted as she went through her journey to the activist she is today, what she is grateful for encountering, and the toll it took on her mental health. She shares a special message with listeners – encouraging people take what actions they need to take in order to see change, that without taking uncomfortable steps, we cannot see change. Through her story she shares the importance of taking time and being gentle with yourself if khatna is something you have also been a victim of.

Guest Bio: Farzana is the Toronto-based author of four novels: Stealing Nasreen, Six Metres of Pavement, All Inclusive, and her latest titled – Seven. Seven was just named an Indigo/Chapters Best Book of the Year, and Amnesty International Readers 2020 Choice. Farzana is also the ‘Maasi’ behind ‘Dear Maasi’, a new sex and relationships column for female genital mutilation or cutting (FGM/C) survivors. She is also an activist, part-time psychotherapist and amateur tarot card reader.

Passionate about: @wespeakoutfgm @canadafgm