"The
purpose of this organization is to facilitate dialogue around
gender and women’s issues by creating a positive women’s
environment where people of any gender may feel safe to communicate
and explore these issues. This will be accomplished through
various events, including but not limited to conferences, panels,
workshops, and an annual production of “The Vagina Monologues.”
In addition, the committee will network where possible with
other student organizations such as the Gender Studies Program,
SAAFE, and Take Back the Night." Committee
Mission Statement
Beginning
in 1998, with the First Annual Women's Conference, this organization
has hosted four women's conferences (1998-2001), a semester-long
"Celebrate You!" schedule of events (2002), and since
2002, an annual production of Eve Ensler's "The Vagina
Monologues" as part of the V-Day
College Campaign. All proceeds raised benefit local organizations
working to end violence against women and children. Here in
Northwest Indiana, our productions have benefitted the Parish
Nurse Program, the Caring Place, Greenwich House, St. Jude's
House, and
the Stepping Stone Shelter.
The local organization for 2007 has not yet been determined.
Part
of the proceeds each year also go towards the V-DAY Spotlight
campaign, "...a particular group of women who are experiencing
violence with the goal of raising awareness and funds to put
a worldwide media spotlight on this area and to raise funds
to aide groups who are addressing it". [V-Day
website, 2007] The 2007 V-DAY Spotlight campaign will benefit
"Women in Conflict Zones."
Each
year's activities are a reflection of the choices and dedication
of the women involved in the committee. For example, thanks
to personal connections and many many emails and phone calls,
the 2005 VM production also went on the road to Wabash
College, an all-male college in Indiana. Ms. Ensler also
attended the performance as it was the first time the Monologues
had been performed at an all-male college. Archived photos of
the cast, Ms. Ensler, and other supporters can be found at various
cast
members' websites.
If
you are a VU student interested in joining this diverse and
dedicated group, please contact the current student chair of
the Committee.
Organization
Governance
The content, views, opinions and positions expressed on these
student organization pages are strictly and exclusively those
of the student organization, and not of Valparaiso University.
Comments and reactions to these pages should be directed to
the Committee.. © Created 06/2004 Last
site update: 11/01/2006.