I am a Professor of American Culture at the University of Michigan, and hold appointments in the Departments of History, Women's Studies, and Obstetrics and Gynecology. Currently I direct the Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies and the Sterilization and Social Justice Lab housed in the Department of American Culture. 

My research has focused on the history of eugenics, genetics, society, and justice in the United States and Latin America. I also have written about the history of public health, infectious diseases, and tropical medicine. Through these topics, I have explored the dynamics of gender, sexuality, race, ethnicity, disability, social difference, and reproductive politics. I believe that historical research and analysis can provide important coordinates for understanding and navigating contemporary dilemmas in health, especially when it comes to reproductive health and genetic technologies.

My research team is interested in hearing from people and families affected by California's eugenic sterilization program in the 20th century. We estimate that as many as 831 survivors are alive today. See this fact sheet for more information and please contact us at california-eugenics@umich.edu if you have a story to share. Follow our efforts on Facebook.

amstern@umich.edu