In their new book "Distraction: Girls, School, and Sexuality," two Illinois State University professors explore the way regulation and school practices sexualize school-age girls from pre-school through adulthood. They joined The 21st to talk about the value placed on the education of kids of different genders, as well as the burdens forced on young women in schools and the effect of labeling girls as a "distraction." 

A statewide panel focused on curbing sexual harassment and providing women with greater access to the political arena is wrapping up its work.

On The 21st: What will the state’s Medicaid overhaul and other health insurance news mean for Illinoisans? Plus, we discuss gender-based price discrimination and wish happy 199th birthday to Illinois. 

Music critic Jessica Hopper recently started a social media conversation about how women and other marginalized groups have been discouraged in their pursuits in the music industry.  Hopper will be in Champaign-Urbana for this weekend's Pygmalion Festival.  She spoke with Illinois Public Media's Brian Moline about how that conversation started, and where she hopes it could lead.