To the Contrary Season 21 Episode 16 July 20, 2012

To the Contrary is a news and public affairs TV show that explores issues concerning women, families, and communities from diverse perspectives. Season 21 episode 16, airing on July 20, 2012, brings together expert panelists to tackle timely and important topics that shape women's lives.

The first segment features a discussion on the controversial Hobby Lobby Supreme Court case, which ruled in favor of the arts and crafts chain store's claim that it was exempt from providing contraceptive coverage for its employees due to the religious beliefs of its owners. The panelists debate the implications of the ruling on women's reproductive health and religious freedom, and what it means for future legal challenges.

The second segment focuses on the upcoming presidential election, with a spotlight on the women voters who could swing the results. The panelists analyze the key issues that women prioritize, such as healthcare, equal pay, and work-life balance, and how the candidates stack up on these fronts. They also delve into the impact of women's activism and mobilization in the election, from grassroots movements to Super PACs.

The third segment examines the persistent gender wage gap, which shows that women earn less than men on average across all occupations. The panelists explore the root causes of the gap, including discrimination, occupational segregation, and work-family conflict, and solutions to address it, such as pay transparency, flex work, and paid parental leave. They also weigh in on popular myths, such as that women choose lower-paying jobs or don't negotiate for raises.

The fourth and final segment sheds light on an innovative education program for young girls in Afghanistan, called Girls' Education in Afghanistan. The panelists hear from the program's founder and director, Shabnam Froogh, about the challenges and successes of educating and empowering girls in a country where they face many barriers to education, from poverty and cultural norms to violence and insecurity. They discuss the role of education in breaking the cycle of poverty and promoting gender equality, and the ways in which the program is making a difference.

Throughout the show, the panelists bring diverse perspectives and insights to the table, drawing on their expertise and experience in fields such as law, policy, politics, and activism. They facilitate a nuanced and thoughtful discussion that challenges viewers to think critically and engage with the issues at hand. With its lively and informative format, To the Contrary continues to be a trusted source of news and analysis on women's issues.