Lindsay Popper’s piece, “Stopping the Violence” [Commentary, March 5], was right on. I recently saw Warren Wilson College’s production of Eve Ensler’s The Vagina Monologues for the first time. I found the production jaw-dropping, hilarious, uncomfortable, tearful and thought-provoking. I was reminded of my friends, my family members and my clients as I watched and felt a range of emotions. Overall, what The Vagina Monologues brought to me was increased awareness and conversation.
Since seeing the production over three weeks ago, I have had dozens of conversations surrounding the issue of gender-based violence. Over the years I have learned that domestic and sexual violence see no race, class, culture or gender; our families, friends and communities are all impacted by the violence imposed on one individual.
As a community and as a society, it is our responsibility to confront these issues head on. By talking about this very uncomfortable and emotional topic, we are opening the door for change. Through awareness, conversation and education, we can provide the momentum to begin to create a community in which stigma is reduced and this population is supported in their recovery.
— Gretchen Cunningham
Swannanoa
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