ACLA 2025 : Whiteness: Imploding the Impermeable and Invisible Monolith
Conference Description
This seminar invites papers critically exploring whiteness as an invented political and social identity category. We seek to investigate its emergence from the transatlantic slave trade, its persistence as an entrenched social norm, and its relative stasis compared to evolving terminology for other racial identities.
Central to our inquiry: Why do people who believe themselves to be white still invest in this category? What strategies might facilitate evolution beyond whiteness? As other racial designations have transformed—Black/Negro/Colored to African-American, Hispanic to Latin/x, Indian to Native/Indigenous, Oriental to Asian—we pose the crucial question: What does Post-Whiteness look like?
We encourage submissions to examine the following:
+ Historical and ideological foundations of whiteness, including contributions of figures like François Bernier and Johann Friedrich Blumenbach to "Caucasian" classification.
+ Whiteness as a reactionary force, particularly in opposition to Blackness and other identities.
+ Contradictions between whiteness and moral frameworks, such as Christianity.
+ Possibilities for transcending, rejecting, or abandoning whiteness, and the stakes involved.
We welcome papers engaging with key concepts in critical whiteness studies, including:
+ Robin DiAngelo's "white fragility" and white racial socialization
+ Eduardo Bonilla-Silva's color-blind racism and social construction of whiteness
+ David Roediger's historical perspective on whiteness in the US
+ Ruth Frankenberg's intersectional approaches to whiteness and gender
+ George Lipsitz's "possessive investment in whiteness"
+ Peggy McIntosh's exploration of white privilege
+ Charles Mills' examination of whiteness through social contract theory
Research probing the complexities of whiteness from sociological, historical, philosophical, and cultural perspectives is encouraged. We particularly welcome explorations of potential pathways beyond whiteness and the societal implications of such evolution.
Goals:
+ Explore historical and political origins of whiteness and its enduring influence
+ Question whiteness's evolution (or lack thereof) compared to other racial identities
+ Examine potential for transcending whiteness and its implications
+ Investigate intersections between whiteness and moral/ethical frameworks
+ Analyze whiteness as a social construct in identity, privilege, and systemic racism
+ Envision possibilities for Post-Whiteness and strategies to facilitate this transition
Structure:
Three sessions, up to 12 panelists, 20-minute papers with discussion.
Submission:
Faculty and graduate students welcome. Submit a 250-word abstract and brief bio by the deadline.
Conference Topics
- #whiteness
- #CRT
- #race
- #african-american
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ACLA 2025 : Whiteness: Imploding the Impermeable and Invisible Monolith?
ACLA 2025 : Whiteness: Imploding the Impermeable and Invisible Monolith is Explore the historical and political origins of whiteness, its enduring influence, and potential pathways beyond it at the ACLA 2025 conference
How do I submit my paper?
Submit your paper via the official submission portal at https://www.acla.org/whiteness-imploding-impermeable-and-invisible-monolith. Follow the submission guidelines outlined in the CFP.
How do I register for the conference?
Register at https://www.acla.org/whiteness-imploding-impermeable-and-invisible-monolith. Early registration is recommended to secure your spot and avail discounts.
What topics are accepted at ACLA 2025 : Whiteness: Imploding the Impermeable and Invisible Monolith?
The topics accepted at ACLA 2025 : Whiteness: Imploding the Impermeable and Invisible Monolith include #whiteness, #CRT, #race, #african-american. Papers that explore innovative ideas or solutions in these areas are highly encouraged.
What are the important dates for ACLA 2025 : Whiteness: Imploding the Impermeable and Invisible Monolith?
- Start Date: 29 May, 2025
- End Date: 01 Jun, 2025
What is the location and date of ACLA 2025 : Whiteness: Imploding the Impermeable and Invisible Monolith?
ACLA 2025 : Whiteness: Imploding the Impermeable and Invisible Monolith will be held on 29 May, 2025 - 01 Jun, 2025 at Virtual. More details about the event location and travel arrangements can be found on the conference’s official website.
Can I submit more than one paper to ACLA 2025 : Whiteness: Imploding the Impermeable and Invisible Monolith?
Yes, multiple submissions are allowed, provided they align with the conference’s themes and topics. Each submission will be reviewed independently.
What is the review process for submissions?
Papers will be reviewed by a panel of experts in the field, ensuring that only high-quality, relevant work is selected for presentation. Each paper will be evaluated on originality, significance, and clarity.
What presentation formats are available at ACLA 2025 : Whiteness: Imploding the Impermeable and Invisible Monolith?
Presentations can be made in various formats including oral presentations, poster sessions, or virtual presentations. Specific details will be provided upon acceptance of your paper.
Can I make changes to my submission after I’ve submitted it?
Modifications to your submission are allowed until the submission deadline. After that, no changes can be made. Please make sure all details are correct before submitting.
What are the benefits of attending ACLA 2025 : Whiteness: Imploding the Impermeable and Invisible Monolith?
Attending ACLA 2025 : Whiteness: Imploding the Impermeable and Invisible Monolith provides an opportunity to present your research, network with peers and experts in your field, and gain feedback on your work. Additionally, it is an excellent platform for career advancement and collaboration opportunities.
What should I include in my abstract or proposal submission?
Your abstract or proposal should include a concise summary of your paper, including its purpose, methodology, and key findings. Ensure that it aligns with the conference themes.