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The Problem of Anonymity: A Film Showing of Offspring (2001) and a Discussion of Donor Anonymity in the Digital Age.

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Venue: Birkbeck 43 Gordon Square

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The Problem of Anonymity: A Film Showing of Offspring (2001) and a Discussion of Donor Anonymity in the Digital Age.

 

Barry Stevens presents the award-winning documentary Offspring (2001) which chronicles the search for his own, anonymous, sperm-donor father. Join us for a viewing of Offspring in Birkbeck’s very own cinema and listen to a talk by Stevens on the issues surrounding anonymity and donor conception. As part of this event, attendees and speakers will consider how the internet is changing the ways in which gamete donors are sought and discovered. We will discuss the benefits of connecting intended families with potential gamete donors but also the risks to anonymity with DNA testing and social media sleuthing. In conversation with Nina Barnsley, director of the Donor Conception Network , we will question how contemporary technology is impacting anonymous donor conception and anonymity laws. Consideration will also be given to how technology, in this respect, is enabling more inclusive attitudes towards diverse family constructions.

 

This free event is funded by the Experimental Humanities Collaborative Network (EHCN). Booking is essential.

 

6pm: Introduction by Dr Grace Halden.

6.10pm: Film showing of Barry Stevens’ Offspring (2001)

7.10pm: Talk by Barry Stevens contextualising the film and raising important points about issues raised in the film followed by Q&A (40 mins)

7.50pm: Talk by Nina Barnsley, director of the Donor Conception Network on broader issues of anonymity pressures today with Q&A.

8.30pm: Drinks reception

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