Her Own Path

This collection of poems by Ida VSW Red seals her legacy as a feminist, naturalist, lesbian, writer, mentor, and activist.

Ida VSW Red was a founding member of what was first known as Mothertongue Reader’s Theater, who wrote for and acted in more than 20 original scripts. These deeply personal and political creations were collectively staged and produced in over ninety performances at a variety of local and statewide venues.

Poetry can be a solitary pursuit, but Mothertongue Feminist Theater Collective provided one of her most meaningful experiences of writing and sharing words shaped in community, to both challenge and affirm women’s sense of themselves.

As a librarian, teacher, and facilitator of writing groups, she shared the wonder of words with others. She guided many aspiring and experienced writers to use an authentic voice and helped bring out their best. She was proud of her professional work as an editor, polishing the written word to perfection, both for academic and popular audiences.