ASALH Annual Conference: A Critical Gathering for Black History and Education
The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) is gearing up for its annual conference, set to take place in Atlanta from September 24-28, 2025. This ambitious gathering aims to unite Black leaders, scholars, educators, and community members at a time deemed a “critical hour” for Black history and education. As discourse around education intensifies, particularly concerning diversity, equity, and inclusion, the conference is excellently positioned to address these pertinent issues.
Conference Theme: “African Americans and Labor”
This year’s theme, “African Americans and Labor,” is particularly timely. Many educational institutions across the country are facing increasing scrutiny about how race and racism are discussed in classrooms. In light of recent state legislation that restricts these discussions, this conference will delve into the historical and contemporary intersections of labor and African American life. The focus aims to highlight labor dynamics within the Black experience, encouraging robust dialogue and exploration.
Keynote Speakers and Featured Voices
The conference will host an impressive lineup of influential voices in the field of African American studies and social justice. Notable among them is Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Dr. Edda Fields-Black, alongside prominent scholar-activist Dr. Ibram X. Kendi. Their insights are expected to provoke engaging conversations that challenge conventional narratives around Black labor and history.
Additionally, labor organizer Chris Smalls, who led the formation of the first independent union at an Amazon warehouse through the Amazon Labor Union, will headline the Friday John Blassingame Luncheon. By spotlighting figures like Smalls, the conference will connect academic discussions with grassroots movements.
Expert Panels and Plenary Sessions
The conference will feature a series of specialized sessions tailored to the needs of educators and community organizers looking to teach Black history in today’s challenging climate. These sessions aim to provide resources and strategies for establishing Freedom Schools and effectively communicating Black history in a society grappling with contentious narratives.
One highlight will be the Wednesday plenary session titled “The Fire Now!” which will critically examine how budgetary constraints and policies impact the preservation of the African American experience. Experts from esteemed organizations like the National Parks Conservation Association and the U.S. Department of the Interior will present their findings and insights.
Accessibility and Community Involvement
Organizers are dedicated to making as many events as possible free and accessible to the public. Activities scheduled for Wednesday, including plenary discussions, film screenings, and vendor exhibits, will not require a fee. This commitment to accessibility reflects a desire to include community voices in the ongoing discourse about Black history and education.
Thursday’s Focus on Black Radicalism
The conference will continue with Thursday’s plenary session, “Towards a Theory of Liberation: The State of Black Radicalism Today.” This panel will include scholars such as Dr. Charisse Burden-Stelly and Dr. Gerald Horne, who will explore the state of current Black liberation movements. Their contributions will provide a multidisciplinary perspective on how activism and scholarship intersect in the pursuit of justice.
Honoring the Legacy of Scholarship
On Friday, the conference will honor the esteemed work of historian Dr. Joe William Trotter Jr., recognized as a leading authority on African American labor history. Such acknowledgments serve to inspire a new generation of scholars and activists who can build upon these significant legacies.
Exploring Historical Contributions at the Saturday Luncheon
The closing luncheon titled “An Unusual Emphasis on Scholarship: Carter G. Woodson, Omega Psi Phi, and the Power of Black History” will investigate the foundational role of ASALH’s founder while also examining how Black Greek letter organizations have played an essential part in preserving African American history.
Registration and Community Engagement
Registration for the ASALH Conference is currently open, offering both free and ticketed events. This annual gathering stands as one of the premier venues for African American historical scholarship and community engagement, providing invaluable opportunities for networking, learning, and furthering crucial discussions on Black history.
This conference promises to be a remarkable event, rich in scholarship and community engagement, bringing together diverse voices and perspectives critical to understanding the complexities of African American history and labor today.