Gender on Campus: Issues for College Women Sharon Bohn Gmelch (New Brunswick, Rutgers UP., 1998.) 308 pp. ISBN 0-8135-2522-5.

A great introductory volume for anyone exploring the discriminatory barriers confronted by women in American and Canadian universities and colleges. Sharon Gmelch, a cultural anthropologist and the Director of Women's Studies, at Union College, New York, presents an overview of contemporary issues affecting women on campus which are influenced not only by gender, but also by such factors as race, sexuality, age, and ability. She addresses a comprehensive slate of issues ranging from covert discrimination through to violence; from weight preoccupation to sexual identity.

Gmelch discusses the atmosphere on campus surrounding the f-word - feminism. Many students support feminism by refusing to identify themselves as feminist. The stereotypes of feminist as radical feminazis or angry male-bashers and lesbians contribute to rejection of the feminist label by many women students. Many African-American women also shy away from identifying as feminists because they associate it with a white woman's movement which ignores their concerns.

Our classrooms are co-ed but do not necessarily provide equality of education for female students and faculty. In chapter two, Gmelch investigates the sexist classroom climate that creates barriers for women in the academic world. Subsequent chapters focus on women and sport, homophobia, racism, disability, eating disorders, substance use and abuse, sexuality and reproduction, sexual health, media influences and the portrayal of women, the workforce and politics.

Gmelch thoroughly discusses each topic in depth by and substantiates her assertions by employing various incidents and examples taken from daily campus life. At the end of each chapter, she provides a list of quick facts and suggestions for action, books and other publications, videos, and organizations for further information. This book could be useful as a Women's Studies text, but should be required reading for all women on campus.

Nghi Trieu