A good-faith, accessible discussion on the ethics of commercial surrogacy, and whether or not it can truly be feministAbout this Event
A feminist's work is never done. As technology and society progress, new frontiers of injustice and inequality must suddenly be confronted.
About Feminist Futures:
Feminist Futures is an evening of good-faith discussion where we unpack and explore some of the defining feminist questions of our time, and try to find consensus and solidarity. There is no required reading or preparation: simply show up as you are.
Our first topic will focus on the ethics of commercial surrogacy. Despite UN human rights experts labelling it as a form of exploitation and violence, the practice has become more and more popular amongst wealthy couples who are unable or unwilling to carry and delivery biological children. This naturally raises questions around healthcare, maternal mortality, bodily autonomy, the right to have children, the risks of pregnancy, the current ways parents and pregnant people are failed - and so much more. In a world where reproductive rights are currently under attack, the question remains: is it feminist to support commercial surrogacy?
On the night:
Our moderator will open with a few remarks summarising the key reasons why families might turn to commercial surrogacy, as well as why it has become so polarising. The floor will then open to everyone and discussion will follow.
The point of the night is not to debate, bulldoze or shame others, but to explore genuinely complicated thoughts and feelings, recognising that discomfort may be a natural and important part of this process.
Open to everyone who identifies as FLINTA*.
Feminist Futures must be a safe, welcoming and respectful space for everyone. Racism, transphobia, sexism, homophobia, harassment, discrimination, or any other form of bigotry will not be tolerated.
Anyone engaging in this kind of behaviour will be asked to leave the event. Please look out for one another and help us create an inclusive environment for everyone.
Some sources (if you like)
You do not have to read up on the topic to be a part of the salon. But if you're interested, we suggest the following:
- Lena Dunham's vogue article on her surrogacy experience
- Shameless Media's podcast episode, 'The celebrity obsession with surrogacy'
- 'Sex Robots & Vegan Meat' by Jenny Kleeman
- 'The Journey', a five-part audio investigation by the New Yorker
- 'Full Surrogacy Now: Feminism Against Family' by Sophie Lewis
- 'Mothers for Sale' in The Atlantic, by Helen Lewis
- Reem Alsalem's UN summary: Report of the Special Rapporteur on violence against women and girls, its causes and consequences. The different manifestations of violence against women and girls in the context of surrogacy' available for free on the UN website - just copy and paste the title into google
Event venue
Café Anna Blume, Kollwitzstraße 83, Berlin, Germany
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