2012 Honoree

Maura Tierney

Actress

“I think it’s shocking that this is still a question. If you have to ask, there’s still a problem” (on media’s portrayal of women).

What do you think of the media’s portrayal of women?

I think it’s shocking that this is still a question. If you have to ask, there’s still a problem.

Have you seen any changes in the political landscape for women over the past few years? What are they?

It seems that gender is no longer a key factor to voters, which is a good thing. The good news is that women of all political beliefs are presenting themselves. The bad news is they are still being attacked on the basis of their gender and not their views.

Do you feel the extreme left and right wings of U.S. politics are destroying the United in United States, or is it just healthy debate?

Yes, I do. But, I feel the right wing is solidly responsible. The conservatives have been blatantly contrarian and transparent about their divisive agenda.

Do you feel the decline of religion in the rest of the Western World will have an effect on U.S. society? If so, will it be good or bad?

Oh c’mon.

Can you tell us about one of the biggest challenges in your life that you think helped you become the person you are today?

I’m not sure there is a single challenge that has informed who I am at the moment. It’s ongoing.

Do today’s young people face a bigger challenge than you did?

No, because they can hook up on Facebook. Sometimes it’s hard to be young, sometimes it’s hard to be old.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Measure twice, cut once. From my dad.

If you could have dinner with anyone, living or dead, who would it be and why?

Kurt Cobain.

What is your favorite book (fiction or nonfiction)?

Lolita.