I am exasperated with the recent Viewpoint letters - mainly because I see two sides passionate about an important issue, but, because of the internecine strife on campus, neither side is achieving anything. I would like to propose an alternative. Taking into account the fact that "The Vagina Monologues" have been performed for the past few years and that violence against women persists at a shocking rate, it seems that we must engage in a more effective means of preventing this violence.
For those who want to denounce the typical opponents of the "Monologues" (the stereotypically male, conservative, religious types), consider this: These young men are not the ones violating women. Au contraire, they are probably some of the most chaste men on campus. So, supporters of the "Monologues," lay off these folks and view them as your partners.
And to you, opponents of the "Monologues," consider the group supporting the "Monologues": it is dedicated to demolishing all violence against women. So, work together with this group in establishing a campus more dedicated to Christian ideals of non-violence.
Both groups must come together and impose immense pressure on the one group that is the enemy of all of us: The self-centered young men at this University who rape, abuse, take advantage of and hook up with the women of Notre Dame. These jerks use tools like alcohol and vulnerability in working toward their end. While we sit and argue about the "Monologues," our discussion does not thwart the weekend plans these men have.
I propose we choose our friends with more care, decide which social gatherings are responsible and which aren't, limit the amount that we drink, care for our friends and refuse to enter into vulnerable situations. These are some concrete steps we can take to end violence against women. Please embrace these steps with sincerity and thoughtfulness, rather than arguing about this play - the health of our University's students is at stake.
Daniel DiMassaseniorKnott HallFeb. 9
