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On and around February 14, 2006
groups of people across the country got together to watch Boston Legal's "Smile" Episode as a
way of raising awareness of the important role emergency contraception
after rape. RaisingHerVoice.org would like to thank all of you who
hosted and participated in the viewing parties!
Below are some of the experiences shared by participants and hosts of
the viewing parties. If you participated in a viewing party and woud
like to share your experience, please email info@raisinghervoice.org
with a brief description and we'll be happy to post it.
Memphis, TN
Two staff members of the Memphis Regional Planned
Parenthood (MRPP) hosted a viewing party at one of their homes on
February 16. A diverse group of approximately 15 people
attended--individuals from the U.S., Canada, Spain, and Venezuela; men
and women; married and unmarried; whites, Hispanics, and African
Americans; Catholics, Baptists, Protestants. Prior to viewing the
episode, the hosts spoke briefly about emergency contraception (EC) and
provided information about its availabilty after sexual assault, legal
issues, and current legislation in Tennessee regarding its
access. The episode generated much discussion and an
impassionated debate, lasting an additional hour and a half!
Several women shared stories of friends, family, and
aquaintances. Some had taken EC, one was offered EC in the
hospital after rape, and another was provided inaccurate information at
a hospital about her pregnancy when she was considering abortion.
Guests shared their views on both sides of the issue--for and against
the provision of emergency contraception. This sparked discussion
and debate about when life begins and about issues surrounding teen sex
and pregnancy. In all, the guests were engaged and interested in
learning more about these issues. Most guests were unaware of the
difficulties women face in obtaining EC in Tennessee and across the
nation. Many expressed interest in becoming more active in making EC
more accessible in TN, particularly for rape patients. In all,
the hosts felt the event was a huge success!
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