Somerville rises for V-day

On Feb. 14, 2013, more than 100 local residents united to dance for V-day, a campaign meant to raise awareness about violence against women. The day commemorates the 15th anniversary of Eve Ensler’s Vagina Monologues. People from all over the world were invited to participate in a choreographed dance to “Break the Chain,” a song written for the occasion.

Pictured: V-day participants warm up for their routine in Somerville’s Davis Square.

Somerville’s V-day celebration was organized by local community organizer, Chelsea Clarke. Dancers practiced and performed for one hour in the square.

Event organizers handed out papers to all particpants that included the One Billion Rising Pledge [pictured], local resources for victims of domestic violence, and a list of ways to get involved with the cause.

Before performing the dance, participants read the One Billion Rising Pledge aloud as a group.
Pictured left: Chelsea Clarke leads the chant in the middle of a group circle.

Event organizers welcomed all passersby to join the dancing and broke into groups to teach the choreography to those unfamiliar with it.

Before performing their dance one last time together, particpants circled up to hear from a local domestic violence victim and other women involved in local efforts to end the violence.

By their finale, the group had grown to more than 100 people – both men and women – with many of them wearing red as a symbol of anger and strength.

The event was liberating for many in the group [pictured], including participant Jacki Katzman.

“This was so wonderful to be around all these beautiful young women and older women and people who are tripping on their toes and people who totally know the dance and are gorgeous,” she said. “It just feels so good to send love into the world, and let’s hope it makes a difference.”