I was wondering if you have heard any current information on Adelaide Abankwah, a woman from Ghana. She tried to be granted asylum in the U.S. but was turned down at the end of April. I was wondering if she was going to appeal, or if you knew anything about what happens now. She is afraid to go home because they will mutilate her genitals, or kill her, because she has had premarital sex. Thanks for any information. Lisa

Thanks for your note to FEMINIST.COM and for your concern for Adelaide Abankwah. Unfortunately, Adelaide is still in prison. The courts are in the process of drafting "the decision"--which we have no idea what that will be or when that will be. There have been several attempts (mostly on the behalf of Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney and Senator Chuck Schumer) to get her released, but none have been successful.

Adelaide herself is very unhappy in prison--and therefore, needs all of the moral support that she can get. Equality NOW has been the organization working most closely on this case. They have expertise in the area of human rights and specifically in cases of female genital mutilation. (Their number is #212-586-0906) Thanks again for your concern.

—Amy