Why does FGC occur in the United States?
Because significant numbers of females continue to emigrate from countries where FGC is practiced, the population of females in the United States who have undergone FGC or who are at risk for FGC is increasing.3 Immigrants and refugees often establish social support systems and networks in the West that reflect the social and cultural diversity of their country or origin or ethnic group. Cultural activities and family obligations such as FGC may be unaltered by the geographic location of an individual. Furthermore, the problem of FGC in the United States is compounded by complex barriers that immigrants and refugees may face difficulties with cultural adaptation, immigration status, economic issues, isolation 1 and access to education and healthcare services for populations who have undergone FGC or who are at risk for FGC.3 Under federal law, FGC is illegal in the United States for girls under the age of 18. But if FGC is still performed, it is unlikely that the girl would be brought
