From Vice to Nice: Race, AIDS, and Midwestern Politics

Join author Dr. René Esparza (’17 PhD, American Studies) for a presentation from his book, From Vice to Nice: Midwestern Politics and the Gentrification of AIDS, followed by a conversation moderated by Dr. Elliott Powell (Dept of American Studies). This program marks the first event in the new Making Minnesota series hosted by the College of Liberal Arts.
This evening of critical dialogue explores the intersection of race, sexuality, public health, and urban politics in the Twin Cities. Dr. Esparza will share excerpts detailing how Midwestern political strategies and homonormative activism weaponized the AIDS epidemic to reshape local urban landscapes. Following the reading, Dr. Powell will join Dr. Esparza to examine how these historical intersections of race and sexuality inform contemporary struggles for spatial and health justice, concluding with an audience Q&A.
About the event
Thursday, October 8, 2026
5:00 PM Reception | Northrop Gallery
6:00 PM Program | Best Buy Theater
This event is free and open to the public. Registration is required.
For more details and up-to-date information, please visit the original event page.