Women, Violence and Tradition

( Taking FGM and other Practices to a Secular State )

Author/Editor:

Tamsin Bradley

Women, Violence and Tradition is a fascinating look into the life histories of women from ethnic minority communities in the West, focusing specifically on their experiences of under researched cultural practices. It illuminates areas of tension and difficulty when women actively try to reform aspects of their tradition whilst remaining fiercely loyal to their cultural identity. Other examples highlight how young women choose to endorse traditional practices as a way of legitimizing their religion and culture in the face of increasing hostility. This brave and original book tackles the sensitive and controversial issue of female genital mutilation, as well as surveying changing attitudes and practices around marriage and divorce. Using a cross-cultural perspective, Women, Violence and Tradition draws on the views of activists and community organizations that work with women to confront injustice.