MONROVIA, LIBERIA – For the twelfth year running, the Liberian Girls Organization Initiative (LibGirls Org) proudly presents Eve Ensler’s groundbreaking play, The Vagina Monologues, in commemoration of International Women’s Day.
“The Vagina Monologues,” a powerful work of art penned by playwright and activist Eve Ensler, emerged in 1994 as a transformative exploration of women’s experiences with sexuality and violence. As Ensler aptly puts it, “Art has the power to transform, to illuminate, to educate, inspire, and motivate.” One of the thought-provoking questions posed by the play is, “If your vagina could talk, what would it say?” This question serves as a poignant invitation to reflect on the experiences, struggles, and resilience of women.
Ensler’s visionary creation ignited a global activist force called One Billion Rising, inspiring change today, particularly in the context of Liberia, where the fight against gender-based violence remains a critical challenge. The urgency to address the pervasive issue of gender-based violence is underscored by recent statistics from the 2019–2020 Liberia Demographic and Health Survey. Shockingly, the survey revealed concerning rates of gender-based violence, leaving many women and girls feeling unprotected. The harrowing statistics call for heightened awareness, advocacy, and direct support for survivors of gender-based violence.
In alignment with the global movement to end violence against women, One Billion Rising, the 2024 campaign is centered around the theme “One Billion Rising: Rise for Freedom,” defined by reclaiming what freedom means and embodying solidarity, democracy, safety, equality, dignity, and justice.
The event aims to not only raise awareness but also actively contribute to the cause, with a portion of the proceeds supporting the Organization for Women and Children (ORWOCH). ORWOCH’s mission aligns seamlessly with the values championed by One Billion Rising, as the nonprofit organization works tirelessly to ensure that victims of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) can confidentially report incidents and have timely access to services and support, including medical, psychosocial, legal, and material assistance, as well as safe spaces where needed.
Sexual Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) Facts:
- One in 3 women will be beaten or raped during her lifetime.
- 60% of women aged 15–49 have experienced physical violence.
- 9% have experienced sexual violence.
- Less than half (42%) of women who have experienced physical or sexual violence have ever sought help.
Global Solidarity:
One Billion Rising’s call to action has resonated globally, bringing together individuals and communities to participate in dance and artistic acts of solidarity.
As we rise together for freedom, The Vagina Monologues 2024 invites you to be a part of this global movement for change. Join us for an evening of AWARENESS, fundraising, and a CELEBRATION of VAGINAS on Friday, March 29, 2024, from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. at The Living Room Cafe, Royal Grand Hotel, Tubman Blvd., Monrovia Liberia. Tickets are available for purchase at $20 all proceeds will go towards supporting survivors of gender-based violence through ORWOCH. The event will feature a series of powerful performances, guest speakers, and interactive discussions aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges women face and engaging the community in the ongoing effort to end violence against women and girls in Liberia. Vagina Monologues T-shirts will also be on sale at the event.
