By Kate Kirtz and Nell Lundy
This fascinating political look at a little-known chapter in women's history tells the story of "Jane", the Chicago-based women's health group who performed nearly 12,000 safe illegal abortions between 1969 and 1973 with no formal medical training. As Jane members describe finding feminism and clients describe finding Jane, archival footage and recreations mingle to depict how the repression of the early sixties and social movements of the late sixties influenced this unique group. Both vital knowledge and meditation on the process of empowerment, Jane: An Abortion Service showcases the importance of preserving women's knowledge in the face of revisionist history.
"Jane: An Abortion Service" was funded by the Independent Television Service (ITVS) with funds provided by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.
Reviews
~ "This wonderful film is necessary viewing for an understanding of this period and a rousing example of ordinary people making history."- Marlene Gerber Freid, Hampshire College
~ "Polished, revealing...a powerful message of self-determination." - Stephen Holden, The New York Times
Awards
~ Sinking Creek Film and Video Festival, Award of Excellence
~ National Educational Media Festival, Silver Apple
~ Atlanta Film and Video Festival, Best Documentary
~ Chicago INTERCOM Video Festival, Silver Hugo
~ Nominated for Grand Jury Prize at Sundance Film Festival
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