African Studies Media Catalog
Search results:14 records
| 14 records per page | Search by keywords (Criteria:"female circumcision")
Page(s): 1
Angel Returns: Changing the Tradition of Female Circumcision (The) (Videocassette : 50 min. ) [2002]
VHS 9170/ DVD 8084
Abstract: This colorfully photographed film is set in Somalia, where the tradition of female circumcision is firmly entrenched. Isnino Ahmed Musso, a determined and articulate woman, wants change. More than most other films on this subject, this documentary shows clearly what problems a reformer faces. Circumcision is a tradition of family honor, a marketable commodity for dowries, a religious rite, a means to control women's sexuality, and what is often not expressed, a livelihood for the many women who perform this ritual. Circumcisers are viewed with respect and paid for their services. They lobby fiercely against its abolition. Isnino uses all methods at her disposal to change the mindset of her people, including radio debates, which is an effective way to reach an illiterate population. But often, after meeting with religious leaders and elders in villages, she realizes that her best hope is to encourage a transition from a full Pharaonic circumcision to the lesser Sunna-type, consisting of just a few small cuts. In Somali with English subtitles. Also available in DVD format (DVD 8084).
Director: Jacqueline Bakker Distributor:Filmakers Library, NY
Keywords: Somalia, female circumcision, initiation rites, religion, clitoridectomy, ceremonies, media, social change, women, gender
Angel Returns: Changing the Tradition of Female Circumcision, The (DVD : 50 min. ) [2002]
DVD 8084/ VHS 9170
Abstract: This colorfully photographed film is set in Somalia, where the tradition of female circumcision is firmly entrenched. Isnino Ahmed Musso, a determined and articulate woman, wants change. More than most other films on this subject, this shows clearly what problems a reformer faces. Circumcision is a tradition of family honor, a marketable commodity for dowries, a religious rite, a means to control women's sexuality, and what is often not expressed, a livelihood for the many women who perform this ritual. Circumcisers are viewed with respect and paid for their services. They lobby fiercely against its abolition. Isnino uses all methods at her disposal to change the mindset of her people, including radio debates, which is an effective way to reach an illiterate population. But often, after meeting with religious leaders and elders in villages, she realizes that her best hope is to encourage a transition from a full Pharaonic circumcision to the lesser Sunna-type of just a few small cuts. Also available in videocassette format (VHS 9170).
Director: Jacqueline Bakker Distributor:Filmmakers Library
Keywords: Somalia, female circumcision, initiation rites, religion, clitoridectomy, ceremonies, media, social change, women, gender
Asylum: Fleeing Genital Mutilation. (Videocassette : 20 min. ) [2004]
VHS 9173
Abstract: Asylum is a powerful tale of a young Ghanaian woman whose life suddenly changes when her father insists that she undergo a bloody, life-threatening circumcision and then marry an old man. Although traditional circumcision is now illegal in Ghana, it is still practiced. Baaba Andoh had a happy childhood, raised by her mother who sold vegetables in the market place. Baaba had sought out her long-lost father to seek his blessing for her marriage to the man of her dreams. To her horror, she learned of her father's plan and fled her village. Her father, a man of some means, pursued her. Having no recourse but to leave the country, she obtained a false passport and a ticket to the U.S. with the help of friends. The INS spotted the forgery immediately and arrested her at Newark Airport. She spends a nightmarish year in prison before she is successful in obtaining political asylum. Her chilling story is not unlike that of many of the 7,000 women immigrants now being held in detention, awaiting legal representation and hearings on their claims.
Director: Sandy McLeod, Gini Reticker Distributor:Filmakers Library, NY
Keywords: Ghana, USA, female circumcision, immigration, political asylum, women
Bintou in Paris = Paris de Bintou (Le) (Videocassette : 17 min. ) [1997]
V. CASS. VHS 3872
Abstract: This video provides a basis for discussion about the complex traditional, social, and familial context in which African parents decide whether or not to excise their daughters. Writer, producer: Kristen Johnson.
Director: Julia Pimsleur Distributor:NA
Keywords: Africa, immigration, social life, ritual, female circumcision
Changing Paths: Female Circumcision in Mali. (Videocassette : 46 min. ) [2001]
VHS 9177
Abstract: In Mali ninety-three percent of the women are circumcised. This tradition is deeply rooted in village society where life is determined by respect for ancestors and a hierarchy based on age and gender. At an early age, girls are circumcised in order to allow them to 'live their life in purity and become good wives'. Female circumcision is not a subject that is easy to discuss in Mali. Educating people on the subject is therefore something that demands a great deal of patience and perseverance. Astan Diallo exhibits these qualities in abundance in her efforts to eradicate this practice. She works for a local NGO (non-governmental organization) and travels to several villages on her 'moped', talking to men and women about the health hazards of circumcision. She is sensitive to the respect that must be paid to the elders, and courteously approaches these decision makers before speaking to the younger generation. It is clear that there is little room for individual choice. As one girl says 'Whatever they decide, banning it or continuing it, I will do the same.' In French and Bambara with English subtitles
Director: Jacqueline Bakker Distributor:Filmakers Library, NY
Keywords: Mali, Bambara, female circumcision, NGO, social change, women
Cutting Edge (The) (Videocassette : 10 min. ) [1996]
V. CASS. VHS 3804
Abstract: Documentary film, shot in the Kapchorway region of Uganda, looks at the success story of the REACH project in northern Uganda which replaces the dangerous practice of female genital mutilation with ceremonies for the exchange of cattle and gifts to welcome young girls into the adult community. Producer/director: Charlotte Metcalf. [See also Welcome to Womanhood, a follow up to this film].
Director: Charlotte Metcalf Distributor:Bullfrog Films
Keywords: Uganda, women, social conditions, initiation rites, development projects, female circumcision
Day I Will Never Forget (The) (Videocassette : 90 min. ) [2002]
V.CASS. VHS 8108
Abstract: Examines the practice of female genital mutilation in Kenya and the pioneering African women who are bravely reversing the tradition.
Director: Kim Longinotto Distributor:Women Make Movies
Keywords: Kenya, women, female genital surgeries, circumcision
Femmes aux yeux ouverts (Videocassette : 52 min. ) [1994]
V. CASS. VHS 4471
Abstract: Surveys social conditions faced by women in Burkina Faso, Mali, Senegal and Benin, including circumcision, forced marriage, AIDS, and economic repression. Examines grass-roots efforts toward education and improvement as Africa opens to democracy.
Director: Anne-Laure Folly Distributor:California Newsreel
Keywords: Benin, Burkina Faso, Mali, Senegal, West Africa, HIV/AIDS, female circumcision, feminism, marriage, health, women
Fire Eyes (Videocassette : 60 min. ) [1994]
V.CASS.VHS 4107
Abstract: Fire Eyes explores the socio-economic, psychological and medical consequences of the ancient custom of female circumcision which is performed on more than 80 million women worldwide. In this film, several women who have experienced this rite of passage voice varying points of view on perpetuating the practice.
Director: Soraya Mire Distributor:Filmakers Library
Keywords: Female Circumcision, gender, ritual
In the Name of God: Changing attitudes Towards Mutilation (Videocassette : 29 min. ) [1997]
VHS 9189
Abstract: Ethiopian women who refuse to be circumcised are called 'filthy dog.' There is a whole mythology going back thousands of years that such women are repulsive and unmarriageable. Even today, over 115 million women's genitals are mutilated by razors, scissors or even more primitive and painful methods. Twenty-five nations in Africa, in parts of Asia, and in Arabic countries maintain this practice and through refugees it is being performed in Europe and the U.S. On the bright side, there are small inroads being made. This film takes us to the Fistula Hospital in Addis Ababa, one of the few places giving medical care to victims of infibulation. Here, recovered patients are even trained to assist doctors in repairing the damages to other women. An increasing number of Ethiopian women have started to protest against these ancient traditions, even giving out information in schools. But change will not happen overnight.
Director: NA Distributor:Filmakers Library, NY
Keywords: Ethiopia, education, female circumcision, infibulation, social condition, women
Making of Moolaadé (The) (Videocassette : 25 min. ) [2004]
VHS 9131
Abstract: Follows acclaimed author and director Ousmane Sembène during production in Burkina Faso and post-production in Morocco for his film Moolaadé. The work places female circumcision in a historical and social context. Through interviews with the director, actors and crew, the film documents the difficult material and human conditions under which African films are made. The interviews are also included as a special feature on the DVD that also includes the film itself. See also Mooladé.
Director: Samba Gadjigo Distributor:New Yorker Films
Keywords: Burkina Faso, Senegal, Morocco, Ousmane Sembène, film making
Rites (Videocassette : 52 min. ) [1991]
VHS 9191
Abstract: This program explores the custom of female circumcision which has been commonplace throughout history. Today it is still practiced in many cultures, particularly in Africa. This program shows the efforts of women throughout the world to stop the practice. It considers three major contexts in which 'female genital mutilation' (FGM) occurs. The first context is 'cosmetic,' while the second one is 'punitive.' Medical historian Dr. Ornella Moscurri describes how women in the late 19th and early 20th century were subjected to FGM if they stepped out of line. The third context is part of the cultural transition to adulthood and initiation into female life. Routine 'mutilation' has been fiercely attacked by Western observers, although such attacks have themselves been the subject of accusations of cultural imperialism.
Director: Penny Dedman Distributor:Filmakers Library, NY
Keywords: female circumcision, infibulation, rites of passage, women
Warrior Marks (Videocassette : 54 min. ) [1993]
V.CASS. VHS 2831
Abstract: Documentary, written and narrated by Alice Walker, about female genital mutilation in Africa. Includes interviews with victims, activists against female circumcision, and circumcizers.
Director: Pratibha Parmar Distributor:Women Make Movies
Keywords: women, ritual, social conditions, female genital surgeries, activism, politics
Womanhood and Circumcision: Three Maasai Women Have Their Say (Videocassette : 30 min. ) [2002]
V. CASS VHS 7560
Abstract: This thought-provoking documentary sensitively explores the cultural context of female genital-cutting practices among the Maasai. It will stimulate discussion and reflection in a wide variety of courses in cultural anthropology, women's and gender studies, African studies, and development studies. A mother and her two daughters discuss their feelings about circumcision (excision) and its meaning in their lives. The three women discuss their experiences from the perspective of three different stages of the life cycle. Produced by Barbara G. Hoffman.
Director: NA Distributor:University of California Extension Center for Media
Keywords: Kenya, Maasai, female circumcision, women, gender, ritual
Page(s): 1
Angel Returns: Changing the Tradition of Female Circumcision (The) (Videocassette : 50 min. ) [2002]
VHS 9170/ DVD 8084
Abstract: This colorfully photographed film is set in Somalia, where the tradition of female circumcision is firmly entrenched. Isnino Ahmed Musso, a determined and articulate woman, wants change. More than most other films on this subject, this documentary shows clearly what problems a reformer faces. Circumcision is a tradition of family honor, a marketable commodity for dowries, a religious rite, a means to control women's sexuality, and what is often not expressed, a livelihood for the many women who perform this ritual. Circumcisers are viewed with respect and paid for their services. They lobby fiercely against its abolition. Isnino uses all methods at her disposal to change the mindset of her people, including radio debates, which is an effective way to reach an illiterate population. But often, after meeting with religious leaders and elders in villages, she realizes that her best hope is to encourage a transition from a full Pharaonic circumcision to the lesser Sunna-type, consisting of just a few small cuts. In Somali with English subtitles. Also available in DVD format (DVD 8084).
Director: Jacqueline Bakker Distributor:Filmakers Library, NY
Keywords: Somalia, female circumcision, initiation rites, religion, clitoridectomy, ceremonies, media, social change, women, gender
Angel Returns: Changing the Tradition of Female Circumcision, The (DVD : 50 min. ) [2002]
DVD 8084/ VHS 9170
Abstract: This colorfully photographed film is set in Somalia, where the tradition of female circumcision is firmly entrenched. Isnino Ahmed Musso, a determined and articulate woman, wants change. More than most other films on this subject, this shows clearly what problems a reformer faces. Circumcision is a tradition of family honor, a marketable commodity for dowries, a religious rite, a means to control women's sexuality, and what is often not expressed, a livelihood for the many women who perform this ritual. Circumcisers are viewed with respect and paid for their services. They lobby fiercely against its abolition. Isnino uses all methods at her disposal to change the mindset of her people, including radio debates, which is an effective way to reach an illiterate population. But often, after meeting with religious leaders and elders in villages, she realizes that her best hope is to encourage a transition from a full Pharaonic circumcision to the lesser Sunna-type of just a few small cuts. Also available in videocassette format (VHS 9170).
Director: Jacqueline Bakker Distributor:Filmmakers Library
Keywords: Somalia, female circumcision, initiation rites, religion, clitoridectomy, ceremonies, media, social change, women, gender
Asylum: Fleeing Genital Mutilation. (Videocassette : 20 min. ) [2004]
VHS 9173
Abstract: Asylum is a powerful tale of a young Ghanaian woman whose life suddenly changes when her father insists that she undergo a bloody, life-threatening circumcision and then marry an old man. Although traditional circumcision is now illegal in Ghana, it is still practiced. Baaba Andoh had a happy childhood, raised by her mother who sold vegetables in the market place. Baaba had sought out her long-lost father to seek his blessing for her marriage to the man of her dreams. To her horror, she learned of her father's plan and fled her village. Her father, a man of some means, pursued her. Having no recourse but to leave the country, she obtained a false passport and a ticket to the U.S. with the help of friends. The INS spotted the forgery immediately and arrested her at Newark Airport. She spends a nightmarish year in prison before she is successful in obtaining political asylum. Her chilling story is not unlike that of many of the 7,000 women immigrants now being held in detention, awaiting legal representation and hearings on their claims.
Director: Sandy McLeod, Gini Reticker Distributor:Filmakers Library, NY
Keywords: Ghana, USA, female circumcision, immigration, political asylum, women
Bintou in Paris = Paris de Bintou (Le) (Videocassette : 17 min. ) [1997]
V. CASS. VHS 3872
Abstract: This video provides a basis for discussion about the complex traditional, social, and familial context in which African parents decide whether or not to excise their daughters. Writer, producer: Kristen Johnson.
Director: Julia Pimsleur Distributor:NA
Keywords: Africa, immigration, social life, ritual, female circumcision
Changing Paths: Female Circumcision in Mali. (Videocassette : 46 min. ) [2001]
VHS 9177
Abstract: In Mali ninety-three percent of the women are circumcised. This tradition is deeply rooted in village society where life is determined by respect for ancestors and a hierarchy based on age and gender. At an early age, girls are circumcised in order to allow them to 'live their life in purity and become good wives'. Female circumcision is not a subject that is easy to discuss in Mali. Educating people on the subject is therefore something that demands a great deal of patience and perseverance. Astan Diallo exhibits these qualities in abundance in her efforts to eradicate this practice. She works for a local NGO (non-governmental organization) and travels to several villages on her 'moped', talking to men and women about the health hazards of circumcision. She is sensitive to the respect that must be paid to the elders, and courteously approaches these decision makers before speaking to the younger generation. It is clear that there is little room for individual choice. As one girl says 'Whatever they decide, banning it or continuing it, I will do the same.' In French and Bambara with English subtitles
Director: Jacqueline Bakker Distributor:Filmakers Library, NY
Keywords: Mali, Bambara, female circumcision, NGO, social change, women
Cutting Edge (The) (Videocassette : 10 min. ) [1996]
V. CASS. VHS 3804
Abstract: Documentary film, shot in the Kapchorway region of Uganda, looks at the success story of the REACH project in northern Uganda which replaces the dangerous practice of female genital mutilation with ceremonies for the exchange of cattle and gifts to welcome young girls into the adult community. Producer/director: Charlotte Metcalf. [See also Welcome to Womanhood, a follow up to this film].
Director: Charlotte Metcalf Distributor:Bullfrog Films
Keywords: Uganda, women, social conditions, initiation rites, development projects, female circumcision
Day I Will Never Forget (The) (Videocassette : 90 min. ) [2002]
V.CASS. VHS 8108
Abstract: Examines the practice of female genital mutilation in Kenya and the pioneering African women who are bravely reversing the tradition.
Director: Kim Longinotto Distributor:Women Make Movies
Keywords: Kenya, women, female genital surgeries, circumcision
Femmes aux yeux ouverts (Videocassette : 52 min. ) [1994]
V. CASS. VHS 4471
Abstract: Surveys social conditions faced by women in Burkina Faso, Mali, Senegal and Benin, including circumcision, forced marriage, AIDS, and economic repression. Examines grass-roots efforts toward education and improvement as Africa opens to democracy.
Director: Anne-Laure Folly Distributor:California Newsreel
Keywords: Benin, Burkina Faso, Mali, Senegal, West Africa, HIV/AIDS, female circumcision, feminism, marriage, health, women
Fire Eyes (Videocassette : 60 min. ) [1994]
V.CASS.VHS 4107
Abstract: Fire Eyes explores the socio-economic, psychological and medical consequences of the ancient custom of female circumcision which is performed on more than 80 million women worldwide. In this film, several women who have experienced this rite of passage voice varying points of view on perpetuating the practice.
Director: Soraya Mire Distributor:Filmakers Library
Keywords: Female Circumcision, gender, ritual
In the Name of God: Changing attitudes Towards Mutilation (Videocassette : 29 min. ) [1997]
VHS 9189
Abstract: Ethiopian women who refuse to be circumcised are called 'filthy dog.' There is a whole mythology going back thousands of years that such women are repulsive and unmarriageable. Even today, over 115 million women's genitals are mutilated by razors, scissors or even more primitive and painful methods. Twenty-five nations in Africa, in parts of Asia, and in Arabic countries maintain this practice and through refugees it is being performed in Europe and the U.S. On the bright side, there are small inroads being made. This film takes us to the Fistula Hospital in Addis Ababa, one of the few places giving medical care to victims of infibulation. Here, recovered patients are even trained to assist doctors in repairing the damages to other women. An increasing number of Ethiopian women have started to protest against these ancient traditions, even giving out information in schools. But change will not happen overnight.
Director: NA Distributor:Filmakers Library, NY
Keywords: Ethiopia, education, female circumcision, infibulation, social condition, women
Making of Moolaadé (The) (Videocassette : 25 min. ) [2004]
VHS 9131
Abstract: Follows acclaimed author and director Ousmane Sembène during production in Burkina Faso and post-production in Morocco for his film Moolaadé. The work places female circumcision in a historical and social context. Through interviews with the director, actors and crew, the film documents the difficult material and human conditions under which African films are made. The interviews are also included as a special feature on the DVD that also includes the film itself. See also Mooladé.
Director: Samba Gadjigo Distributor:New Yorker Films
Keywords: Burkina Faso, Senegal, Morocco, Ousmane Sembène, film making
Rites (Videocassette : 52 min. ) [1991]
VHS 9191
Abstract: This program explores the custom of female circumcision which has been commonplace throughout history. Today it is still practiced in many cultures, particularly in Africa. This program shows the efforts of women throughout the world to stop the practice. It considers three major contexts in which 'female genital mutilation' (FGM) occurs. The first context is 'cosmetic,' while the second one is 'punitive.' Medical historian Dr. Ornella Moscurri describes how women in the late 19th and early 20th century were subjected to FGM if they stepped out of line. The third context is part of the cultural transition to adulthood and initiation into female life. Routine 'mutilation' has been fiercely attacked by Western observers, although such attacks have themselves been the subject of accusations of cultural imperialism.
Director: Penny Dedman Distributor:Filmakers Library, NY
Keywords: female circumcision, infibulation, rites of passage, women
Warrior Marks (Videocassette : 54 min. ) [1993]
V.CASS. VHS 2831
Abstract: Documentary, written and narrated by Alice Walker, about female genital mutilation in Africa. Includes interviews with victims, activists against female circumcision, and circumcizers.
Director: Pratibha Parmar Distributor:Women Make Movies
Keywords: women, ritual, social conditions, female genital surgeries, activism, politics
Womanhood and Circumcision: Three Maasai Women Have Their Say (Videocassette : 30 min. ) [2002]
V. CASS VHS 7560
Abstract: This thought-provoking documentary sensitively explores the cultural context of female genital-cutting practices among the Maasai. It will stimulate discussion and reflection in a wide variety of courses in cultural anthropology, women's and gender studies, African studies, and development studies. A mother and her two daughters discuss their feelings about circumcision (excision) and its meaning in their lives. The three women discuss their experiences from the perspective of three different stages of the life cycle. Produced by Barbara G. Hoffman.
Director: NA Distributor:University of California Extension Center for Media
Keywords: Kenya, Maasai, female circumcision, women, gender, ritual
September 16, 2008: Geoffrey Nyarota
