" BAL: Can you name three issues that you have become more aware of because of this project?

DE: The first is that it is absolutely essential that programs that resemble my program are more than just academic programs. That would be the first thing. Second, if you're going to offer help to somebody, don't offer them a pint when they need a gallon. If you're going to offer it to them, offer them everything that they need. Most of the people in my program have been to dozens of other programs - you name any program and I can tell you a couple students who've been in it. Everything, every piece of help they have ever been offered, has been piecemeal. . .. And third, if you're going to do it, do it from them, not for them. Do it from them and it'll be wonderful.

BAL: You had identified sexual abuse before the women got together, but they named it.

DE: ... I made suggestions like: We could learn about welfare rights. We could learn about sports. We could learn about some health issues that you might have. . . . Then they brainstormed and it was then that they came up with it.

BAL: What do you think they would have done if you had suggested it?

DE: I think they would have all walked away. They would have just gone back and sat down and said, "No, I don't want to talk about that." I don't think they would have stayed with me for five minutes. Something that personal has to come from the person. It can't be forced on them.

Diane Eastman (DE) and Betty-Ann Lloyd (BAL), Interview 2