Runtime
01:34:45
Country of Production
USA
Submitted by
John Coffill
Synopsis
“Healing Magdalene” is a feature film about female genital mutilation (FGM). Female genital mutilation is predominantly practiced throughout Eastern, Central and Western Africa, and also extends to the Arabian Peninsula, Iraq, some occupied Palestinian territories, and certain immigrant communities in Europe, Australia, Canada, and the United States of America. Over 130 million girls and women worldwide are currently living with the consequences of FGM. The story behind “Healing Magdalene” begins in Houston, Texas where Donna L. Valverde, writer and director of the film, learned about FGM from Magdalene, her father’s healthcare provider. Donna’s father had been diagnosed with congestive heart failure, hospice was called in as well as round-the-clock care. Magdalene worked long, twelve hour shifts, compassionately providing care for Donna’s dying father. Magdalene and Donna Valverde became close during those intense days and nights. This 96 minute film is intended to generate global awareness about the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) in an effort to evoke universal change. The film challenges the viewer to ask whether or not our lives are truly significant and whether or not our actions truly do make a difference. One candle will light a dark space; a multitude will turn darkness to light.
Category
documentary feature
