How to Survive the End of the World The Fantasy and Necessity of Solidarity with Sarah Schulman
May 2, 2025
Sarah Schulman, a renowned novelist and AIDS historian, dives deep into the intricacies of solidarity in this fascinating conversation. She challenges the misconceptions surrounding activism and emphasizes the importance of genuine connections in social justice movements. Drawing on personal narratives, Schulman reflects on her identity shaped by a Holocaust family and her relationship with Palestine. The discussion also explores how constructive conflict can foster understanding, highlighting the power of collective action in bridging communities and advocating for marginalized voices.
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Solidarity Is a Relationship of Error
- Solidarity is often misunderstood as a heroic, perfectionist act, which deters participation.
- Viewing it as a relationship full of errors and small steps makes solidarity more accessible.
Creative Solidarity Media Stunt
- Wilmette Brown, a black lesbian ex-Black Panther, created a fake New York Prostitutes Collective for a media stunt.
- She manipulated media attention, raising prostitutes' prices during the Democratic Convention to expose her cause.
Sarah's Palestine Solidarity Journey
- Sarah Schulman's journey into Palestine solidarity involved rejecting family narratives and honoring a cultural boycott.
- She organized tours for queer Palestinians to build bridges with American queer communities.
