Changing Landscapes: Reproductive Health—Past, Present, Future

Reproductive rights in America are constantly changing. How did we get to this point, and where do we go from here?

Join us for an interdisciplinary seminar to discuss the current status of reproductive health, address the historical context that brought us here, and to consider possible futures. Experts from the fields of medicine, history, law, and social work will consider these issues and share their perspectives. 

The seminar will also feature displays of rare books and archival materials from Bernard Becker Medical Library, including rare books on obstetrics and gynecology dating from the Renaissance to the 20th century; landmark publications on abortion written by Frederick Taussig, MD, a gynecologist and professor of clinical obstetrics at WashU Medicine in the early 20th century; and other archival materials. 

Open to WashU students, faculty, and staff. Registration is suggested but not required.

Agenda:

8:30 – 8:45 a.m.  Opening Address 
Sarah Bush, MA, MLIS 
Archivist, Bernard Becker Medical Library 

8:45 – 10:00 a.m.  Panel Discussion 
Susan Frelich Appleton, JD 
Lemma Barkeloo & Phoebe Couzins Professor of Law, WashU Law

Jessica K. Backman-Levy, PhD, MPH (Moderator) 
Associate Professor of Practice, WashU Brown School 

Adrienne Davis, JD 
William M. Van Cleve Professor of Law, WashU Law; Professor of Organizational Behavior and Leadership, Olin Business School; Founder & Co-director of the Law & Culture Initiative 

Sarah K. England, PhD 
Alan A. and Edith L. Wolff Professor of Medicine, WashU Medicine; Vice Chair of Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Director, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences 

Jewel Stafford, MSW 
Teaching Professor and Assistant Dean for Field Education, WashU Brown School 

10:00 – 10:30 a.m.  Coffee and Refreshments  
Featuring displays of rare books and archival records from Bernard Becker Medical Library Archives and Rare Books 

10:30 – 11:30 a.m.  Keynote Presentation 
Dineo Khabele, MD 
Chair, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Mitchell & Elaine Yanow Professor, WashU Medicine 

11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.  Historia Medica Lecture 
Judith A. Houck
Professor of the Departments of Gender & Women's Studies and History, University of Wisconsin–Madison