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The Power of TV: Pregnancy, Birth Control & Choice

March 24, 2025 - 12:00 PM PT

About the event

The Power of TV events are open to the public; you don't need to be a member of the Television Academy to reserve free tickets.

When MTV's hit show 16 and Pregnant premiered in 2009, it ignited a national conversation around birth control and reproductive health. Across other networks and streamers, more storylines focusing on these issues soon followed. In addition to showcasing compelling narratives, shows like Hulu's East Los High connected viewers with resources to empower young audiences to advocate for their sexual health and well-being.

Today, as the children born from 16 and Pregnant's first season turn 16, these conversations remain more relevant than ever. Meanwhile, shows like The Handmaid's Tale paint a chilling portrait of a world where reproductive autonomy is stripped away, underscoring the power of television to reflect and challenge public perceptions.

Join us for this year's first The Power of TV, presented as a virtual event, as we explore the evolution of television storytelling around reproductive health, pregnancy, birth control, and choice in today's media landscape.

Click here to reserve tickets.

Moderator:

  • Anne Vasquez, Executive Director, Television Academy Foundation

Panelists:

  • Dr. Raegan McDonald-Mosley, Chief Executive Officer, Power to Decide

  • Lauren Dolgen, Creator, 16 and Pregnant

  • Lynn Renee Maxcy, Staff Writer, The Handmaid's Tale

  • Katie Elmore, Showrunner/Director/Executive Producer, East Los High

A free public event of the Television Academy Foundation.

Click here to reserve tickets.

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