Mariam Nasief, Columbia University

#FreeBritney is at its peak — and through it we see a woman trying to regain control of her life being met with corruption, sexism and abuse.

Luke Gair, Sewanee: The University of the South

Though the annual awards ceremony seeks to celebrate television’s best, one look at the nominees suggests it’s really just glorified gatekeeping. Why should media consumers rely on an oppressive institution to deem what is and is not worthy of watching?

Abby Webb, Rice University

Year after year, the Academy proves itself ignorant of female-driven stories.