Womenspeak teaches hard truths CLOSE TO HOME Cynthia Taggart

"That gasp is the reason we come together," Tamara says. "It was good to know a lot of other women feel the same way I do."

Womenspeak North Idaho brought the women together, hoping that education eventually would lead them to activism.

"You can't become active until you know something," says Len Mattei.

Womenspeak evolved from a conversation among statewide women's rights activists at Len's house 18 months ago. Len teaches humanities at North Idaho College. She's a no-nonsense woman who has worked for women's rights throughout her adult life.

Women told her North Idaho needs a group to educate women about the issues they face, among them domestic violence, reproductive freedom and the economy. Len and a few others wanted to reach women of all economies, faiths, ages and political beliefs.

They began with an all-day session at NIC with Judith, a University of Idaho economist. The workshop cost $15. Many participants sent extra for scholarships for women who couldn't afford to go.

A year ago, Womenspeak invited women to the Greenbriar Inn to talk about how the state Legislature had let them down. They called the program "Just Desserts."

"We felt women hadn't gotten their just deserts," Len says. "The name stuck."

Last fall, Womenspeak invited two doctorate-level nurses from Washington State University to speak about the result of abuse on pregnancy. The topic drew nearly 80 people, including several from law enforcement.

The next Womenspeak gathering is at 6:30 p.m. Monday in NIC's Todd Hall, which is in the library. The group will show a video, "Tough Guise: Violence, Media and the Crisis in Masculinity."

It shows the images men and boys are up against -- male dolls with exaggerated biceps, the violence of professional wrestling -- and the behavior that results.

"It really causes a smack across the forehead, `I didn't know that,"' Len says, demonstrating. Her group previewed the video.

Tamara, who's in telecommunication sales, was so impressed with her first Womenspeak event that she's helped organize more.

"I finally could meet people who think like me," she says.

Len gorges on the learning opportunities. Her eyes shine as she shares facts she's picked up from speakers.

"There's such a need for us to recognize our common ground," she says. "I truly believe it's empowering, makes life better for all of us."

Spring fling Celebrate the return of color to North Idaho and show your support for the fight against multiple sclerosis with a two- or five-mile walk in downtown Coeur d'Alene April 27.

The walk starts at North Idaho College's student union building at 10 a.m. It includes snacks en route and at the finish line, and flashy tulips, budding trees and deep blue Lake Coeur d'Alene. Treat yourself.

Light up Show the world you care about kids and shine a light at the Lions Pavilion in Q'emiln Riverside Park in Post Falls 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. April 26. It's a sign of unity and support, and a way to show the community you don't tolerate child abuse. Plus, a host of lights shining over the rocky park cliffs along the Spokane River is a sight with spiritual promise. Participation is free.

• What's your favorite Spokane River story? Raise the eyebrows of Cynthia Taggart, "Close to Home," 608 Northwest Blvd., Suite 200, Coeur d'Alene, ID, 83814; fax to 765-7149; call 765-7128; or e-mail to cynthiat@spokesman.com.

-- Anonymous, April 19, 2002

Answers

I am WOMAN.... ROAR!!!!!!

-- Anonymous, April 22, 2002

I don't even want to think about having to face an up-in-arms SAR.

-- Anonymous, April 23, 2002

There was a story on the news about women in top positions, beginning with one in Bush's team, who are going back home, leaving the work force to be moms. Apparently women are realizing that being mom is more important.

Of course we have no idea is this is going to become a huge thing or not. Some women in positions of power are better there than raising kids. I guess the same should be said for men, but it was a given I think.

-- Anonymous, April 24, 2002