Boston College offers its example
Jennie Willson
senior
Editor's note: Because"The Vagina Monologues" contains some graphic content and offensive language, the letters discussing these issues will contain such language as well. In order to foster an intelligent dialogue on this matter, this language must be included. Readers who might be offended by such language are cautioned.
I would like to respond to the numerous letters and controversies that have recently engulfed the production of "The Vagina Monologues" on your campus. Just a week ago I co-directed and produced the "Monologues" at Boston College, a Jesuit Institution, and I am proud to say that the support from both students and faculty was overwhelming. With the help of the Boston College community, we raised almost $6,000 for a battered women's shelter and RAWA. Since the show, I have had strangers approach me, male and female, to thank me for giving students and staff a chance to learn something about themselves.
For those at Notre Dame who claim that "The Vagina Monologues" are vulgar and immodest, I would have to agree. But that is exactly the point. Those in opposition to the production are ignoring the fact that the play gives voice to actual women, to real stories of love, rape, discovery, pride and shame. This play does not preach in any way, shape or form; it is not anti-Catholic, or anti-religious for that matter. Quite to the contrary, it is simply a reflection of female reality, presented to empower, educate and foster an understanding of real gender issues and the larger social issues they imply.
If "The Vagina Monologues" make any of you in South Bend uncomfortable, don't use that reaction to compound ingnorance. Act with a mature, open mind, and go see the show and the impact it makes on each and every audience member before you condemn it.
Jennie Willson
senior
Boston College
Feb. 17, 2002
All Viewpoint Stories for Monday, February 18, 2002
