I am writing to you because I am wondering if the general public is aware of the real message of the play "The Vagina Monologues." I believe many get caught up in the emotions of the title and fail to look beyond it. Domestic and emotional violence is the central theme of this play. Proceeds from the play help to build safe houses for women all over the world. Women need to feel safe and protected while recovering.

Eve Ensler, the author, is to be greatly admired - because she dared to tell her story over and over again about how many women have been given a new lease on life. Unless you know someone who has suffered or is suffering domestic or emotional abuse, you do not understand. It takes a whole village to address this issue, and that is why I am asking all women to reconsider and attend one of the plays in your area. Go on the VDay. org Web site. Plays began on Valentine's Day and will continue until the end of March.

Monmouth University and Brookdale Community College will sponsor "The Vagina Monologues." I guarantee that you will laugh and cry. Become a V-Day warrior and purchase a ticket.

If you decide to attend, you will leave empowered, informed, proud, determined and more that anything delighted that you came. Last year was the first time I attended. I was ignorant about the "Monologues" and did not know what they were all about. Brookdale Community College Student Health Center and the Lincroft Business and Professional Women's group will sponsor the event March 29 at 8 p.m. and March 30 at 4 p.m. in the Warner Student Life Center. Call (732) 224-2395 or 224-2106 for ticket information.

It is not about the word vagina, it is about the problem, violence and abuse against us!

As a survivor like Eve Ensler, I hope that all women will make a concerted effort to become involved and be an integral of V-Day 2008. We need your help.

Gwen Evans V-Day Organizer