With all of the oncoming academic stress and social events in the last few weeks of the semester, women’s issues at William and Mary are probably far from the minds of most of you, collegiates™. But because of the recent bills passed by Virginia’s state legislature and the nationwide debate on women’s rights, every student deserves to become better informed and contribute their opinions. For those looking to become a part of this feminist discourse on campus, a television screening series provides just the chance.
“Women in the Workplace on TV” is a roundtable series that examines the representation of working females in contemporary media. The first event, which took place last Thursday, March 15th, featured popular sitcoms, Parks and Recreation and How I Met Your Mother. Led by Elizabeth Miller, William and Mary’s coordinator for Student and Community Engagement, the screening managed to elicit laughs from the audience, yet tied the humorous episodes to a relaxed and thought-provoking discussion. Plus, with a plethora of free snacks for added incentive, what’s not to love?
“Beauty Pageant,” the episode highlighted in Parks and Recreation, satirized the emphasis placed on female sexuality and appearance when Leslie Knope, played by Amy Poehler, was asked to judge Pawnee’s pageant contestants. While her fellow judges rooted for a dim-witted beauty queen, Leslie hoped to convince them to choose a more gifted and scholarly young woman to represent Pawnee. The show drew remarks from the audience, mostly surrounding the roles of women in society. The second episode, “Bad News”, from How I Met Your Mother, moved the discussion towards reproductive rights and sexism in the workplace.
The remaining two events will spotlight HBO drama, Mad Men, and America Ferrara’s sitcom, Ugly Betty. They are sure to be equally as engaging and appeal to students interested in a range of topics, from sexuality to immigration. Again the dialogue will be led by speakers, be interactive and be entirely free flowing. There will be plenty of time to share or just to listen. Now is the time to speak out about women’s issues. Let your opinions be heard, collegiates™!
In addition to the events, the series is also introducing a new blog, www.tpoww.blogs.wm.edu, with feminist posts and articles in order to further promote discussion on campus. Currently, it is also specifically accepting submissions detailing the experiences of women in the workplace. If you or any one you know might have relevant anecdotes, stories, or ideas to share, please feel free to send them in!
Upcoming Screenings Dates (Both from 7-9PM)
Thursday, March 22nd: Mad Men–Speaker Prof. Colleen Kennedy in Blow 322
Thursday, March 29th: Ugly Betty—Speaker Prof. Elena Prokhorova in Washington 315
Contact etlambergs@email.wm.eduor go to www.tpoww.blogs.wm.eduor more information!
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at WM chapter.