The Vagina Monologues is returning to the University of Southern Indiana, and proceeds from the internationally-known performance are supporting a local cause.
Students from USI’s Philosophy Club, Face of Feminism, Gender Studies, and the Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminal Justice (SAC) Club are joining forces to break the taboos surrounding violence against women.
The campaign begins on Valentine's Day with a roundtable discussion with the Albion Fellows Bacon Center, the Evansville Police Department and Willow Tree of Posey County about sexual assault and domestic violence.
USI Professor Mary Lyn Stoll organized the event. Proceeds from the ticket sales go to Willow Tree of Posey County, a non-profit that provides counseling and support for women and girls who have experienced sexual assault and domestic violence, Stoll said.
"Part of why there's so much of a problem with sexual assault and gender-based violence is because it's taboo to even talk about it," Stoll said. "So part of the the reason for having Vagina Monologues is to shed a little light on that part of people's lives.
Stoll says the event aims to raise awareness, but it’s not all gloom and doom.
"It's about celebrating that we can all fight for equality together," Stoll said. "And just the funny things that have to do with vaginas as well."
Stoll adds that The Vagina Monologues is not just for women. Men in years past could be seen rolling on the floor with laughter, Stoll said.
More information:
What: V-Day USI 2014, a benefit production of Eve Ensler’s The Vagina Monologues, raising funds for Willow Tree and the V-day fund for One Billion Rising
Where: Forum 3 in the Forum Wing of the Wright Administration Building on the University of Southern Indiana Campus
When: Tuesday 3/4 & Wednesday 3/5 at 7pm. Doors open at 6:30pm. Open seating.
Admission: $7