Ophira Edut, publisher and writer on women’s issues, will visit NIU to give an hour-long lecture and host a book signing.

She will speak about why body image is a health issue for women of all cultures, and she will examine how the media influences body image and people’s perception of beauty. Edut will read excerpts from her book, “Body Outlaws: Young Women Write About Body Image & Identity.”

The book contains essays from young women about body image, culture and identity.

Lydia Feliciano, a junior marketing major and Unity in Diversity coordinator, said Edut will confront the unrealistic standards that women sometimes try to meet when it comes to their bodies.

“Edut is unique in that she is really able to integrate multiculturalism on many levels,” said Jennifer Panning, a counselor at Counseling and Student Development Center. “Body image is really important. I personally don’t know anyone who doesn’t struggle with some kind of body image concerns.”

Edut has been lecturing on body awareness since 1995, and has created a Web site, AdiosBarbie.com. She and her twin sister are the official astrologers for Teen People magazine and AOL teen channel.

Edut also has been a contributing editor at Ms. Magazine and was the founder of Hear Us Emerging Sisters magazine. Her work has been featured in several magazines and anthologies.

Panning is hoping for a turnout of several hundred. Her lecture and book signing are part of a series of events planned for Women’s History Month. Audience members will be able to buy her book after the lecture for $14.95.

Feliciano said the event will be beneficial for students to attend, and that women on college campuses may tend to have eating disorders.

“Everyone always struggles with their personal image,” she said. “It’s something normal and it’s something you should talk about.”

Co-sponsors of Edut’s visit include the Women’s Studies Program, University Resources for Latinos/Latina Assistance Program, CAB University in Diversity Committee, NIU CARES and University in Diversity Steering Committee.