During the three-day conference, participants will analyze the portrayal of women in television, film and print, and also develop strategies for improving women's images in, and access to, the media -- especially as digital technology dramatically expands the number of channels available and creates the possibility of interactive television.  "Los Angeles is the capital of the entertainment industry; the place where so many trends are set.  We will leave L.A. with a feminist plan to increase and improve the roles women play on television and in film," Ireland promised.

The conference agenda is jam-packed with exciting speakers and events.  Speakers who will share their expert knowledge of the television and film industries include accomplished stage and four-time Emmy winning television actor Tyne Daly, award winning screenwriter and playwright Pamela Gray, and novelist and playwright Cherie Bennett.

NOW activists will also lay out the organization's political strategies for the 2000 elections.  Politicos on hand will include U.S. Representative Barbara Lee (D-CA) and California State Assembly Members Sheila James Kuehl (District 41), Hannah-Beth Jackson (District 35) and Gloria Romero (District 49).

"We cannot plan for the future without looking to our past," Ireland said as she described a reunion which will bring together activists of all ages to celebrate feminist history and the people who helped fuel the women's rights movement during its early years.  Aileen Hernandez, a founding member and the second national president of NOW, will share both her experiences and her vision for the future as a featured conference speaker.

Proving that feminists do have a sense of humor, comic Suzy Berger will open Saturday night's entertainment, which will include singer/songwriter Cindy Bullens followed by a dance.

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