Washington, DC-area feminists were treated to an evening of feminist comedy in May, as they contributed money to the Feminist Majority Foundation's National Clinic Defense Project.

"We have held successful Choose to Laugh, Laugh to Choose evenings of feminist comedy for four years in Los Angeles," said Eleanor Smeal, President of the Feminist Majority Foundation. "It's always been a hit, so this year we thought we'd bring it to Washington."

Six comedy acts from around the country donated their time and talent to raise money for the National Clinic Defense Project, which is one of the largest abortion clinic defense projects in the nation. New York-based Julie Goldman was the evening's emcee, introducing fellow New Yorkers Janine DiTullio and Passion. From California, Betsy Salkind had the audience roaring with laughter at her imitation of a squirrel, during which she nibbled an entire matzo cracker. Quintessential, an a cappella singing group from Washington, DC, performed hilarious songs, and Californian Rene Hicks closed out the evening with her brand of political humor.

"It's important for feminists to be able to laugh, even though our work is often so serious," said Alice Cohan, Feminist Majority Foundation Director of National Programs, who coordinated this year's East Coast feminist comedy evening.

The next East Coast Choose to Laugh, Laugh to Choose will be held in the spring of 1998.