Photo Caption:
	“Miss Representation” exposes the ways in which the mainstream media distort perceptions of women by focusing on youth, beauty and sexuality rather than on intellect, creativity and other important attributes.

Documentary exposes how the media shape perceptions of women

HOPE Center hosts free public screening of “Miss Representation”

Feb. 24, 2012

The Lock Haven University HOPE Center is proud to announce a free public screening of a powerful new documentary film. “Miss Representation” explores how the media’s misrepresentations of women have led to the underrepresentation of women in positions of power and influence. This 2011 film, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, will be shown on Monday, March 5 at 6:00 p.m. at the HOPE Center, G204 East Campus.

“Miss Representation” exposes the ways in which the mainstream media distort perceptions of women by focusing on youth, beauty and sexuality rather than on intellect, creativity and other important attributes. This selective focus plays a significant role in the way young women see and portray themselves, which subsequently affects the expectations placed on them by others.  Written, produced and directed by Jennifer Siebel Newsom, the film includes interviews with prominent women such as Condoleezza Rice, Nancy Pelosi, and Katie Couric.

Dr. Lisette Schillig, associate professor of English, has shown “Miss Representation” to her class in Women’s Studies.  “Newsom’s documentary is a profound wake-up call--definitely something both women and men should see,” she said. “‘Miss Representation’ reveals the sobering degree to which cultural images and media discourse objectify and denigrate women.  Given how many hours a day we expose ourselves to these toxic messages—through TV, the Internet, music, and film—it’s little wonder that young girls especially grow up feeling disempowered and with little hope of realizing their dreams to become strong women who will be taken seriously and who will be recognized for their intellectual, political and creative contributions.”

The motto of the film is “You can’t be what you can’t see.”  Dr. Schillig added, While the documentary is a punch in the gut, it’s also a shot in the arm.  It reminds women—51% of the population—of just how much political power we have, and the extent to which, now more than ever, we must use that power to disable sexism in this country, and to effect positive political, social, and cultural change.” 

Following the film, there will be a discussion of the issues presented.  Dr. Elizabeth Gruber, associate professor of English and chair of the Hope Center, expressed her hope that many members of the public will join LHU faculty, staff and students in what she expects to be a lively discussion.

The HOPE Center, located in G204 East Campus, was opened in February 2009. It serves as a safe place on campus for students to discuss a variety of social, cultural, or political issues, such as domestic violence, sexual assault, and self-harm.  Visit http://www.lhup.edu/hope/ to learn more about the HOPE Center’s purpose and upcoming events.

Lock Haven University is a member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE), the largest provider of higher education in the commonwealth.  Its 14 universities offer more than 250 degree and certificate programs in more than 120 areas of study.  Nearly 405,000 system alumni live and work in Pennsylvania.

####