The Personal is Political
with Isidra Mencos

The Personal is Political: The Evolution of Spain and its Citizens from Dictatorship to Democracy

When a country is sick, the population shows the symptoms. In this presentation, Isidra Mencos examines the intersection between politics and private lives at a pivotal time in the history of Spain. Growing up under the Franco dictatorship, Mencos was 17 when Franco died in 1975. The transition to democracy took some years, but the cultural and sexual revolution happened quickly. It was a time of hope, but also of political and social conflict. With democracy under threat around the world, Mencos reflects on the impact that authoritarianism has in every aspect of a person’s life, and the decades-long shadow it casts.

This historical-personal presentation will end with a Q&A with the audience and a book signing. Copies of Isidra Menco's book, Promenade of Desire: A Barcelona Memoir (She Writes Press), will be available for sale.

About the Monday Noontime History Series

Mechanics' Institute, a historical institution in the heart of downtown San Francisco, proudly hosts its noontime history series on select Mondays, offering a fascinating journey through various historical topics that resonate both locally and internationally. This series is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts, featuring an array of engaging subjects that bring the past to life. Past presentations include "History from the 1970s" with Tony Bucher and "A Short History of Deception" with Myles Dungan. In honor of Women's History Month, the series is especially proud to present "The Personal is Political" with Isidra Mencos. Through this diverse and enriching series, Mechanics' Institute continues to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of history, bridging the past into the present for its audience.

About the Presenter

Isidra Mencos is the author of Promenade of Desire—A Barcelona Memoir. Born and raised in Barcelona, she spent her twenties freeing herself from the oppression created by Franco’s dictatorship after the dictator's death in 1975. She holds a Ph.D. in Spanish and Latin American Contemporary Literature from UC Berkeley, where she taught Spanish language, literature, and creative writing. Her essays and articles have been published in Diálogo, WIRED, Chicago Quarterly Review, and Stirring Literary Journal, among others. Her essay, “My Books and I,” was listed as Notable in The Best American Essays 2019. Isidra lives in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Cancellation Policy

We reserve the right to cancel at any time and issue a full refund. If you are unable to attend this series, please email [email protected] by Sunday, March 3, 2024, to receive a full refund less any non-refundable ticketing fees which may be applicable. All fees must be paid at the time of registration. After Sunday, March 3, 2024 no refunds will be issued.

Questions? Please contact [email protected].