A lot has changed in all of our lives since my last message to you in the February newsletter. I hope this message finds you well and healthy, and our newsletter blogs brighten your day.

I’ll start with some amazing news. Earlier this month, the movement against female genital mutilation (FGM) claimed two victories in the U.S. Vermont and Wyoming have both banned FGM! In Wyoming, we worked closely with the bill sponsor, Representative Dan Laursen, by encouraging him to sponsor the bill, reviewing draft language, and helping to navigate through to its successful passage. Together in both states, over 1,000 girls are now protected against FGM thanks to stronger protections solidified in law!

Nesli Ergün, a multimedia storyteller living in Istanbul, uses art to stand up to oppression against women. Through artistic expression, she breaks societal barriers in order to have open conversations about difficult topics, such as FGM and honor violence. Having recently returned from the U.S., she answered our questions while self-quarantining in Turkey. Read about Nesli’s artwork and storytelling here.

For many of us, the beginning of this spring has been marked by adapting to a life of “social distancing.” In this blog, the staff at AHA Foundation share how we are spending our time at home, while doing our part to flatten the curve of COVID-19. Enjoy reading about our new hobbies , and please leave a comment in our blog about what you are doing!

Finally, we are looking for a new staff member at AHA Foundation— a Marketing and Communications Specialist. If you are a self-starter, passionate about defending women’s rights, and an excellent writer please contact us. Apply on our website , or share this post with anyone you believe is a good fit.

We are so grateful for your support! May you, your families, and communities stay safe and healthy.

Ayaan Hirsi Ali, Founder