As part of the Penn Women's Center's 2026–27 theme, Every Body Belongs: Centering Wellness, Bodily Autonomy, Reproductive Health, and Health Equity, they are planning to host a screening of the award-winning documentary BABY DOE on Thursday, October 8, from 5:00–8:00 p.m.
BABY DOE explores the intersections of pregnancy, trauma, perinatal mental health, reproductive justice, women's experiences, and the criminal legal system through the story of Gail Ritchey. Following the screening, we plan to host a conversation with filmmaker Jessica Earnshaw, creating an opportunity for interdisciplinary dialogue around these timely issues.
30 years ago, Gail Ritchey, a young woman from a conservative Christian community in rural Ohio, gave birth alone and left her newborn in the woods. Now a mother of three, her quiet suburban life is shattered when DNA evidence links her to “Geauga’s Child,” and she is arrested for murder - despite saying the baby was stillborn. Facing a life sentence, Gail leans on her family for support as she confronts the weight of societal and religious pressures. Directed by Jessica Earnshaw (Jacinta), BABY DOE cuts through the headlines to uncover the human complexity of Gail’s case - examining the intersection of women’s health, justice, and the outside forces that continue to shape stories like hers.
