The Georgia Southern University chapter of the National Organization for Women will hold their annual reading performance of the “Vagina Monologues” in the Russell Union Ballroom on Thursday, Feb. 15.

The inspiring play will raise funds and awareness for NOW as well as the Statesboro Regional Sexual Assault Center.

The “Vagina Monologues” is a play written by Eve Ensler that discusses an array of sexual topics through the eyes of women from all walks of life. The personal monologues discuss topics including consensual and nonconsensual sexual experiences, body image, relationships, and childbirth.

Lisa A. Costello, Ph.D., director of the University’s Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Program and co-advisor for GS NOW, describes the play as, “a labor of love for students, faculty and especially for cast members, who volunteer their time to rehearse and perform the show. The most important message from the show is that we should not be silent about violence or harassment against women, women-identified, non-binary and non-conforming folks.”

In an attempt to end taboos about females and female identified sexuality, the monologues uncover the mystery, wonder, and confusion of what it truly means to be a woman.

To honor the 20th anniversary of the monologues and V-Day at GS, 90 percent of the proceeds raised will be donated to the SRSAC.

Since 2006, the SRSAC has been a full sexual assault center and provides a 24/7 crisis hotline to the community. The organization focuses on helping sexual assault victims to safety and recovery.

The other 10 percent will be donated to V-Day, a nonprofit that stemmed from the mission of the “Vagina Monologues.” V-Day raises and distributes funds to groups that work to prevent violence against women and children all over the world.

The organization has raised over $100 million since the play began. Universities, communities, and organizations around the globe host the “Vagina Monologues” to raise awareness and funds for V-Day organizations.

Tickets will be pre-sold for $10 at the southeast plaza of the Russell Union Feb. 12 and 13. Tickets will be $12 at the door on the day of the performance.