My American History (Women on Women)

My American History is a unique, engaging and moving collection of non-fiction writing by one of America's most exciting young novelists. Sarah Schulman's writing and activism in the feminist and lesbian and gay movements has produced a body of work of both personal and political significance--a history of one and of many. My American History contains pieces written between 1981 and 1992, that document the expectations and imaginations of activists as they struggled, under impossible odds and an ever-growing opposition, to articulate a movement for freedom and dignity during the Reign of Reaganism. The essays examine the political issues and moments of triumph and tragedy of the progressive movements of the day--the inauguration of Ronald Reagan, the rise of the Right, the attacks on abortion, the sex wars in the feminist movement, the AIDS pandemic, censorship and the NEA, and the new lesbian activism. Each piece is accompanied by analysis and commentary written in hindsight, discussing the choices involved in those moments, and the eventual significance of the events. Also included in My American History is the Lesbian Avengers Handbook, written by Schulman and other members of this rapidly growing direct action group. The handbook stands as a practical guide for others interested in political direct action, as well as a document of the theory and practice of the new lesbian activism. Sarah Schulman has been at the forefront of the movements she writes about, both as a writer and a participant. My American History offers readers a frontline account of the 12 years that changed the face and direction of American life, and will continue to influence our futures.