The past couple of weeks in the lead-up to the RNC I've found myself saying "vagina" on public radio, something that I've certainly never done before. It's strangely empowering. Just saying the word takes the mysticism out of it -- makes it less intimidating. Vagina. Vagina. Vagina. My body, my choice, my voice.
Unlike Mad Men's world of advertising, which seeks to fool and trick people into believing in something (usually superficial), activism is about making the invisible truth visible. We are in the business of exposing reality--yes, sometimes at the cost of what may seem vulgar or inappropriate. Putting daylight on the truth can illuminate the way forward. One vagina at a time.
It's time to close the door on the era that trumpeted the subjugation of women. And it's time we unzipped the lies and aired the truth: vaginas are powerful and beautiful, and whatever your genitalia, everyone deserves to have access to reproductive care and full health coverage.
Rae Abileah is the co-director of CODEPINK Women for Peace ( www.codepink.org ). She lives in San Francisco, CA
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