V is for more than Vandals, said Heather Gasser, University of Idaho Women’s Center director and co-producer of “The Vagina Monologues.”
“V-day developed as a result, from ‘The Vagina Monologues’ success in 1998,” Gasser said. “It extends its reach to the larger community.”
V-day evolved into an international movement committed to end sexual violence. The V stands for victory, valentine and vagina. Since its inception in the 1990s, V-day campaigns have raised more than $85 million for anti-gender violence. Last year, there were more than 5,800 V-day efforts around the world.
“Other playwrights have contributed to the campaign by writing pieces similar to what Eve Ensler did with her play,” Gasser said. “Most of the plays contain elements of rape and sexual violence that educate the audience.”
Sisters’ Brew Coffee House in downtown Moscow will host a student art show that displays empowering women at 6 p.m. Jan. 31. During the display, visitors can make donations directly to V-day and buy admission tickets for “The Vagina Monologues.” James Wagner, area coordinator for family and graduate housing, is responsible for coordinating the exhibit.
“From the time when I was an undergraduate, I have felt that I’ve had a calling to help others,” Wagner said. “I feel like getting involved in V-day is very social and action-oriented, which I fully support. V-day is not a women’s problem. It’s a societal problem.”
Wagner also coordinated a reception following “The Vagina Monologues” performance Feb. 4 at the Camas Prairie Winery on Main Street. The event will be catered by Gnosh and begins at 9:30 p.m. The two businesses will donate a portion of sales from the night to the V-day campaign.
Delta Chi fraternity will also get involved by promoting “The Vagina Monologues.” Members of the fraternity have volunteered to pass out flyers and usher during the show.
In addition, The Women’s Center will show a free screening of the documentary “What I Want my Words to Do For You” at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday in Memorial Gym, room 109. The film focuses on a workshop led by Ensler with women inmates convicted of murdering their abusers.
“The Vagina Monologues” will be performed in the Kenworthy performing Arts Centre Feb. 2-4. Tickets cost $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Proceeds will be donated to Alternative Violence of the Palouse and the international V-day campaign.