February 14th is not only about chocolates and teddy bears with hearts. It's also V-Day - a day of awareness about violence against women and girls.

V-Day was started by Eve Ensler, the author of 'The Vagina Monologues', and it's grown into a global event. So much so that today it's a celebration called One Billion Rising. The idea is for people worldwide to rise up and dance, sing and raise their voice to demand action to end the violence.

In South Florida, the event will be marked first at Florida International University (11200 SW 8th Street) with a street fair that will feature information and activity booths, entertainment and prizes. The fair runs from 9am - 2pm.

Then this evening, One Billion Rising invites the community to 'Rise and Be Counted' at the New World Symphony Sounsdcape Park. The event will include live performances by local dance groups and New World Symphony Fellows, plus the presentation of Miami-based artist Dara Friedman's video installation, 'Dancer'.

Click on the mp3 to can hear my interview with Lisa Schejola Akin from One Billion Rising.

And get more information about the events here and worldwide at the One Billion Rising website.

Peace!