Description

Small Town Rage: Fighting Back in the Deep South

by David W. Hylan
Edited by Robert Darrow
Foreword by Mark S. King
Format: Paperback
ISBN-13: 9798993599403

The history of AIDS activism is often told through the stories of New York, San Francisco, and other major cities.

But some of the most courageous battles were fought far from the national spotlight.

Small Town Rage: Fighting Back in the Deep South chronicles the remarkable story of ACT UP Shreveport, one of the smallest yet most determined AIDS activist organizations in the United States. In the heart of Louisiana, a group of ordinary citizens confronted extraordinary challenges as they fought for dignity, healthcare access, and basic human compassion during one of the most devastating public health crises in modern history.

Facing hospitals that refused treatment, churches that offered condemnation instead of support, and political leaders unwilling to acknowledge the crisis, these activists refused to remain silent. Against overwhelming odds, they built a movement where none was expected to exist.

Drawing from personal testimonies, historical records, first-hand interviews, and the award-winning documentary that inspired the book, David W. Hylan brings to life the voices of activists, caregivers, advocates, and community members who challenged prejudice and transformed lives.

Featuring leaders such as Chuck Selber, Deborah Allen, Robert “Bobby” Darrow, Joe DeSantis, and others, the story reveals how grassroots activism helped reshape HIV/AIDS services across Louisiana and contributed to the founding of The Philadelphia Center, one of the state’s most important HIV support organizations.

At once a historical record, a tribute, and a call to remember, Small Town Rage captures the courage, grief, humor, resilience, and determination of those who fought back when doing so carried enormous personal risk.

An essential contribution to LGBTQ history, AIDS activism, and Southern history, this powerful work ensures that the legacy of ACT UP Shreveport will not be forgotten.