OTB,
All women who have undergone FGM may not be immigrants.

There is anecdotal evidence, from medical staff, that women that underwent FGM here years ago are now having their own daughters 'done'. This is despite being raised in our western society and schooled here.

Changing the description of FGM to FGC is not going to entice these women to come forward and where exactly do you propose they come forward to. The women that have endured FGM are known to medical staff during their pregnancy and birthing. But you are right in that it is their daughters that are 'at risk'.

It is important that the 'at risk' girls be medically examined regularly so the parents know they will be caught out if they have their daughters mutilated. Then if the penalties are serious, the practice in Australia will stop.

Have you stopped to think that if the laws are enforced properly in relation to FGM, it may be an opportunity for those that oppose male circumcision to push their case. At this point getting persons prosecuted for FGM is far more likely than getting the same for male circumcision.

I believe that priority that must be given to ensuring that children, in fact all Australians, have the full protection of Australian law. I am not open to any 'ifs', 'buts' or concessions.

How can anyone be active in opposing cutting of girls (or boys) without having seen the presentation by medical professionals that is renouned world-wide for describing the practices, the roots and solutions? Here it is,

Whose Body, Whose Rights, Parts 1&2
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W0kr6BiVZMM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qSAjpzpF6qM

Yes it does concentrate on the very common mutilations performed in the US, which are against male babies, but the principles and drivers are the same. The US is one of the biggest mutilators of child sex organs in the world. It is supported by ignorance and people ensuring they themselves remain ignorant, lest they are required to face the reality of the cruelty they allow against infants.

You need to understand that the same common denominators apply to sexual mutilation of males and females. The law must be uniformly available to all and enforced. It is not a zero sum game.

Somali born author Ayaan Hisi Ali described in detail the procedure having endured it herself. Like some other Islamic custom it seems to be enforced by Grandmothers. The complications in later life can be horrendous, fistulas are common, childbirth and the first sexual experience usually require the cutting of scar tissue to gain entry or to enlarge the vagina.

Siller,
You are absolutely right, FGM is far more serious and the ongoing effects are horrendous. That is why there is far more emphasis on FGM.

FGM is against the law in Aus and it needs enforcing. I am aware of one case pending and, hopefully, with more to follow.

Too much for me having seen the horrendous ongoing medical problems in Somalia. But the that is nothing I suppose to having you hands and feet cut off when they no longer have any use for you. Death becomes a relief.

OTB you are aware some do not have the confidence in you, that you hold?
In reference to my thoughts re the male op you seem to think my view is not based on evidence?
In truth you can be hard to follow, Jews have it from their holly book.
But as *any man knows* cleanliness is a by product.
And for that reason westerners too get it done.
*NOT FOR RELIGION*
Nothing read here has turned my views, yet in a way my warning of blind side tracks has been proved .