On Thursday, April 5th, WGH and the Strategic Training Initiative for the Prevention of Eating Disorders (STRIPED) co-sponsored a documentary and discussion of Miss Representation. This star-studded film explored how the media’s misrepresentations of women have led to the underrepresentation of women in positions of power and influence. Two SHDH doctoral students, Shaniece Criss and Monica Wang, facilitated the conversation. The participants were grappling with how to change the sexualized portrayal of women in the media. For instance, the film highlighted that there are links between violent images towards women and actual violence actualized on women. Yet, with the evidence, there has still been a lack of policy to in the government to address this problem. One line of conversation focused on the importance to translate research in a way that attains the attention of media and policy-makers. The film highlighted the need for more women in government in order to add a much needed voice to all levels of decision-making and provide powerful role-models for girls. Several discussants shared about the potential for media literacy, and how could that be incorporated in a wider capacity for children in schools and the parents who set the tone for their households. This event highlighted that many aspects of the media do not represent a full canvas of women, and that we have to involve women and men in this effort.
Women, Gender, and Health
