“Hoo-ha,” “down there,” “pussy” and vagina. All words for a part of a woman that nobody talks about — until now.

The Associated Students Gender & Sexuality Equity Center and students of Chico State helped bring vaginas into the light of day with “The Vagina Monologues,” performed Friday night at the Bell Memorial Union.

The piece was filled with heartfelt, unique stories collected from women of all ages, from as young as 6 to as old as 72.

The cast was filled with strong performers who, through their dedication to the piece, showed a world where women can stand proud.

The audience laughed, cheered, cried and moaned along with each piece in a way that isn’t usually seen in theater.

This piece is truly written for the younger generation, in a time when over-sexualization is rampant but talking about oneself is still uncomfortable for many.

Katy Rives, a teacher at both Yuba and Butte colleges, spoke about her students.

“Whenever I say ‘vagina’ in class, the men, who have been exposed to hardcore porn for years, freak out,” Rives said. “Vagina freaks them out.”

The play was written almost a decade ago in 2005, but the sentiments and problems are still relevant nearly a decade later.

The author challenges problems such as rape, sexuality and a fear of something that is a part of all women.

The author also brings to light how women perceive themselves and the world around us, and makes women believe in beauty again — including the vagina.

Veronica Hodur can be reached at [email protected] or @VeronicaHodur on Twitter.