Tomorrow the production of “The Vagina Monologues” will begin at John Carroll University. Due to the university’s religious affiliation, the production has always caused a great deal of controversy. In fact, “The Vagina Monologues” are only one part of a month long global movement called V-Day, which ultimately raises awareness and funds for anti-violence organizations. V-Day should be acknowledged and celebrated here on campus. Issues of violence against women are too important to be forgotten.
V-Day, which stands for victory, valentine and vagina, was born in 1998 and has been growing ever since. Last year nearly 3,000 V-Day benefit events took place. Each event educated communities about violence against women and raised funds for anti-violence groups. This year proceeds will benefit The Domestic Violence Center of Cleveland. This year V-Day’s theme is “Reclaiming Peace,” a theme which can be found embedded in many of John Carroll’s social justice organizations.
The production is one way that colleges and universities across America raise awareness of violence against women. It is true that moral teachings of the Catholic church are not followed by “The Vagina Monologues,” but the production is not asking you to change your moral values. “The Vagina Monologues” promote comfortable discussion among women pertaining to sex and violence. Such a discussion may not normally take place.
V-Day is celebrated to educate, inform and promote an end to violence. These events promote the mission statement of John Carroll University which states “…developing women and men with knowledge and character to lead and to serve.” This weekend attend a performance of “The Vagina Monologues” or visit the official V-Day website at www.vday.org.
