Tonight, women will unite to tell stories of courage and strength; women of different orientations will join together to defend female sexuality; women of different backgrounds will join together to end violence.

Tonight, women of different sexual histories will join together to fight sexual assault; women of all colors will join together to celebrate diversity; women of all ages will join together to celebrate tradition.

Tonight, women of all majors will join together to celebrate academic freedom.

Most importantly, tonight, women will gather together to celebrate women.

Many people are opposed to "The Vagina Monologues." Whether discussed publicly or privately, there seems to be an ongoing battle between those who support it and those who oppose it. It seems like the argument, and those involved, will never settle on common ground. And, it will never settle completely until one thing is realized: Everyone is different. Every person has their own personal views regarding "The Vagina Monologues," just like everyone roots for their own sports team for to their own reasons. There is however, one thing that unites us all — we are all students. Students want to learn.

With this in mind, schools encourage students to seek knowledge in and out of the classroom. Students, as citizens, are guaranteed the right of petition, freedom of speech and peaceful assembly. With these freedoms, a student is able to make his or her own personal choice to attend lectures and events that they deem educational. It is this freedom of choice that empowers each student to pursue his or her individual passion. By discouraging students to attend any event that centers on controversial material, people not only prevent this academic exploration, but also commit a disservice to anyone seeking knowledge. For that reason, school administration encourages students to get involved with their education and take interest in issues that inspire them.

The same academic freedom which allows a student to speak freely in a classroom also ensures that a student has the ability to make his or her own decisions regarding his or her education outside the classroom. Students have the right, without fear of penalty, to engage in academic inquiry concerning attitudes, doctrines, or facts about which they desire to learn.

To those who constantly bash the Monologues, I urge you to find another topic out of respect for your peers. Petty bickering is neither thought stimulating or necessary. Hurl your stones elsewhere. Eve Ensler and all the other women whose stories have been immortalized through the Monologues are way out of your league.

Tonight, I will speak to other women about sexuality. I will speak to other women exclaiming the beauty and importance of diversity and support those who have been sexually assaulted. I will speak to other women with hopes of inspiring them to find their special place in the world.

Tonight, I will speak in celebration of women in support of all the women who shared their most intimate fears to make the Monologues possible. I will find strength in knowing I have the support of other women who have gone before me.

Tonight, I will speak to other women through the gift of academic freedom.

I urge you to respect this freedom, and turn your ears accordingly.

My name is Kelly Hager, and I am not afraid.

• I'm not afraid