Our 5-Year Vision
Comprehensive FGM/C Prevention & Support in Massachusetts: Creating lasting systems change for prevention, healing, and community empowerment. HOPE-MA is building a coordinated statewide system through cross-sector collaboration that establishes survivor-led, culturally sensitive support networks embedded within existing community structures to address female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C).
What is FGM/C?Hear about the project:
Changing Narratives host Patricia Mars sits down with Dr. Crista Johnson-Agbakwu and Olivia Harris to discuss what it really takes to strengthen FGM/C prevention and survivor support across Massachusetts — from building on the 2020 legislative win to closing gaps in care and driving community-led, sustainable prevention.
The MA Coalition
Advancing Policy, Protection, and Support
Through our MA Coalition, we seek to drive policy and systems change when it comes to addressing access to health services, violence and trauma, and the social environment in connection to FGM/C. The Coalition will consist of a network of diverse stakeholders that will include FGM/C impacted communities, activists, state agencies, community-based organizations, advocacy groups, law enforcement, and service providers (healthcare, educators, social workers, child protection officials), who may come into contact with those impacted by FGM/C.
MA CoalitionThe HOPE MA Stakeholder Map
The HOPE-MA Stakeholder Map visualizes community-centered, multi-sectoral coordination. With survivors and impacted communities at the center, it maps interconnected sectors essential to creating lasting systems change.
From Immediate Care to Long-Term Change
Our comprehensive approach improves health outcomes for survivors through accessible, trauma-informed care while preventing future cases by shifting societal norms toward bodily autonomy and gender equity. This vision unites healthcare, social services, law enforcement, and community organizations in a cohesive response framework that addresses both immediate needs and long-term systemic change throughout Massachusetts.
See the Path to Legislation Meet Our Project Team