Criminalize Male Infant and Child Circumcision

The Issue

At the heart of this petition is a personal story—one of horror and deep sadness as I reflect upon the realities faced by men who have endured circumcision. I personally know individuals who have been severely adversely impacted by this practice, and it is time for us to confront this atrocity head-on. Circumcision, particularly when performed on infants, children, and adolescents, is a significant violation of bodily integrity that can result in long-lasting physical and psychological trauma.

In the United States, female genital mutilation is rightfully banned and recognized as a human rights violation. Yet, the same consideration is not extended to male infants and children. The foreskin of boys is analogous to the clitoris in girls. It is a sensitive and essential part of the male anatomy, providing protective and sensory functions. The disparity in legal protection is stark and troubling.

It is imperative to bring legislative change by extending the coverage of US Code 18 SS 116, which prohibits female genital mutilation, to include male circumcision. Each state must take responsibility and move towards criminalizing this practice to protect boys and men from unnecessary surgical procedures that have lifelong consequences.

Medical research and testimonials from affected men reveal that circumcision can lead to a range of issues including reduced sexual sensitivity, psychological distress, and a feeling of violation. These adverse effects underscore the urgent need for legal reform.

This call for action is not a criticism of cultural practices but a plea to recognize and uphold the fundamental rights of male infants and children. Protecting children's rights to bodily autonomy and safeguarding them from irreversible procedures they cannot consent to is an ethical imperative.

Join me in demanding that our legislators take appropriate steps to amend laws at both federal and state levels. Let us strive towards creating a society where the bodily integrity of all children is respected and preserved. Sign this petition and be a voice for those who are too young to protect themselves.

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The Issue

At the heart of this petition is a personal story—one of horror and deep sadness as I reflect upon the realities faced by men who have endured circumcision. I personally know individuals who have been severely adversely impacted by this practice, and it is time for us to confront this atrocity head-on. Circumcision, particularly when performed on infants, children, and adolescents, is a significant violation of bodily integrity that can result in long-lasting physical and psychological trauma.

In the United States, female genital mutilation is rightfully banned and recognized as a human rights violation. Yet, the same consideration is not extended to male infants and children. The foreskin of boys is analogous to the clitoris in girls. It is a sensitive and essential part of the male anatomy, providing protective and sensory functions. The disparity in legal protection is stark and troubling.

It is imperative to bring legislative change by extending the coverage of US Code 18 SS 116, which prohibits female genital mutilation, to include male circumcision. Each state must take responsibility and move towards criminalizing this practice to protect boys and men from unnecessary surgical procedures that have lifelong consequences.

Medical research and testimonials from affected men reveal that circumcision can lead to a range of issues including reduced sexual sensitivity, psychological distress, and a feeling of violation. These adverse effects underscore the urgent need for legal reform.

This call for action is not a criticism of cultural practices but a plea to recognize and uphold the fundamental rights of male infants and children. Protecting children's rights to bodily autonomy and safeguarding them from irreversible procedures they cannot consent to is an ethical imperative.

Join me in demanding that our legislators take appropriate steps to amend laws at both federal and state levels. Let us strive towards creating a society where the bodily integrity of all children is respected and preserved. Sign this petition and be a voice for those who are too young to protect themselves.

The Decision Makers

Bob Ferguson
Former Washington Attorney General
U.S. Senate
2 Members
Maria Cantwell
U.S. Senate - Washington
Patty Murray
U.S. Senate - Washington
Marko Liias
Washington State Senate - District 21

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Petition created on July 1, 2025