Call for Papers and Presentations — 2025 UNC Asheville Queer Studies Conference

About

The UNC Asheville Queer Studies Conference, established in 1998, attracts a diverse audience of activists, academics, community members, and artists. We invite proposals for our 2025 conference, especially welcoming presenters from historically marginalized populations, including LGBTQIA+, Black, Brown, Indigenous, disabled, poor, and/or immigrant communities.

Conference Theme: Cultivating Resilience, Centering Joy

Queer life can be marked by oppression but also defined by enduring joy through community. This theme explores how we sustain hope and momentum amidst challenges. Topics might include:

• Connections between mind and body for sustaining work
• Transformative conversations challenging oppressive narratives
• Art as a means of joy and resistance
• Mentorship for queer and trans youth
• Cultivating inclusive classrooms under scrutiny
• Emotional tools to withstand attacks on queer lives

Suggested Presentation Formats:

• Paper Presentation (15 minutes): Present in person at UNCA (option to livestream). Organizers will place your work into a panel with 2-3 other presenters.
• Asynchronous Paper Presentation (15 minutes): Pre-record your presentation for the conference website.
• Panel Presentation (90 minutes, 3-4 presenters): Present in person at UNCA (option to livestream). Include information about each presenter and their contributions.
• Workshop (60-90 minutes): Present in person at UNCA (option to livestream). Include information about each presenter and learning outcomes for attendees.
• Performance/Exhibition: Specify length, format, space/equipment needs, and online delivery options. Present in person or pre-record for the conference website.
• Poster Presentations: Print your poster (36x48in) to present in person and/or submit a digital copy for the conference website.
• Other Presentation Types: Email us your ideas!

Dates and Deadlines:

• Submission deadline: Friday, November 15, 2024
• Notification of acceptance: January 5, 2025
• Deadline to confirm your attendance: February 15, 2025
  • If you do not confirm by this date, your presentation will be removed from the program.
  • Presenters are not considered confirmed until they have registered for the conference.
• Deadline to upload asynchronous presentations: March 15, 2025
• Conference dates: March 28-30, 2025