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Women's Bodies Under the Microscope: Sex Does Matter

Sex Does Matter: How Sex, Gender, and Race Impact Science and Medicine - October 24, 2022, April 13, 2022, March 20, 2023, and February 1, 2023

Paula A. Johnson, MD, MPH, President of Wellesley College, discussed a paradigm shift in medical research and clinical care: the recognition that sex is a fundamental biological variable that must be considered if women’s health is not to be left to chance. She also examined social variables that affect biology—such as gender, race, and ethnicity—and highlighted the importance of diverse leadership in science and medicine to achieve better health outcomes for all.

Lilia Cortina, PhD, discussed the high rates of sexual harassment in academia, highlighting that it is often more about power and insult than sexual advances. She drew on decades of research to show its impact on women’s wellbeing and careers, and emphasized the need for a radical overhaul of organizational responses. Her talk shared key findings from the 2018 National Academies report and outlined action steps to address the issue.

After the Supreme Court reversed Roe v. Wade, Katie Watson, JD, focused on state abortion bans and the unspoken premise of Dobbs—that women are not “people” under the Constitution. She traced the recent history of women’s legal and social personhood, examined its link to abortion rights, and argued that reproductive justice offers the best framework for moving forward.

Lisa VanHoose, PT, PhD, MPH, FAAPT, explained that the Swahili term Ujima meant collective work and responsibility. She emphasized that reaching one’s highest potential required commitment to the success of others and recognition of intersectionality in defining and valuing success.

Speakers