The 8th Screening and Discussion

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 Aibhe Smyth.

This event is free and open to the public, but registration via Zoom is required.

This program is co-sponsored by the Birnbaum Women’s Leadership Network, the Center for Religion and Media, NYU Cinema Studies, the Center for the Study of Gender and Sexuality, Glucksman Ireland House, and Irish Screen America.

Post-Screening Discussion

Anna McCarthy (Moderator), Professor and Chair, NYU Cinema Studies

Aideen Kane, Director, The 8th

Melissa Murray, Frederick I. and Grace Stokes Professor of Law; Faculty Director, Birnbaum Women’s Leadership Network

Aibhe Smyth, Activist