Media Release
For Immediate Release April 2, 2008
For more information contact Karen Kubby at (319) 337--2112

Maude Episode on Abortion

The Public Issues and Education Committee of the Emma Goldman Clinic Board of Directors will host a screening and discussion about an episode of 70’s sitcom Maude that centered around herconsideration and decision to have an abortion. 

This program will take place on Tuesday, April 15 at 7pm in South Commons (3^rd floor) of the Belin-Blank Honors Center, located on the corner of Market and Capitol Streets, just across from the Chemistry Building.

Television both reflects and can lead our discussions of current controversial topics. 

Maude was a sitcom that confronted social and political issues openly and featured a strong female lead played by Bea Arthur.  Maude ran on CBS from 1972 to 1978. 

In an episode (“Maude’s Dilemma”) that ran early in the series, the 47-year-old Maude is astounded to find herself pregnant.  After discussions with her husband, daughter, and friends, she decides to have an abortion – an option that had just been legalized in New York state. The openness around this TV sitcom family’s discussion and acceptance of abortion stands out in TV history, even thirty years after the end of the series.

After the screening of this episode, a discussion will be facilitated by Board members of the Emma Goldman Clinic and university professors.  Refreshments will be provided.

For more information, contact Karen at (319) 337-2112.

Photo from http://www.museum.tv/archives/etv/M/htmlM/maude/maude.htm