SCREENING + DISCUSSION: THE 8TH (94 mins, 2020)
THE 8TH (94 mins, 2020, Directed by Aideen Kane, Lucy Kennedy and Maeve O’Boyle) traces Ireland’s campaign to remove the 8th Amendment, a constitutional ban on abortion enacted in 1983. The film follows the country’s transformation from a conservative state in thrall to the Catholic church to a more liberal secular society. It features voices from both sides of the debate, while highlighting the dynamic pro-choice leaders that drove the change, such as veteran campaign activist Ailbhe Smyth. Post-screening discussion with director Aideen Kane, activist Ailbhe Smyth, and Melissa Murray (NYU Frederick I. and Grace Stokes Professor of Law, Faculty Director, Birnbaum Women’s Leadership Network). Moderated by Anna McCarthy (Professor and Chair, NYU Cinema Studies).
Co-sponsors: NYU Birnbaum Women’s Leadership Network, Center for Religion and Media, Cinema Studies, Center for the Study of Gender and Sexuality, Glucksman Ireland House; and Irish Screen America