As the presidential election approaches, the nation is once again embroiled in a series of arguments over the treatment of women in government and society. But in many other places across the globe, the war over women’s freedoms is fought with more than just words. The documentary Half the Sky: Turning Oppression Into Opportunity for Women Worldwide hopes to offer help to ladies in need, no matter where they’re from. A local preview screening of the documentary this Thursday will let viewers learn more about the initiative, which focuses on increasing opportunities for and eliminating oppression of women and girls around the world. The film was inspired by the best-selling book and visits ten countries to track a variety of initiatives aimed at empowering the distaff. Hollywood do-gooders featured in the documentary include Eva Mendez, Meg Ryan, America Ferrara, Olivia Wilde, and Diane Lane. Actress and Dwyane Wade paramour Gabrielle Union will attend the screening to discuss her visit to Vietnam and experience with the Room to Read organization, which promotes literacy and education, as part of the documentary. After the screening, a panel of local experts will take questions.
Thu., Sept. 27, 6:30 p.m., 2012