New Directions in Critical Race and Ethnic Studies, April 27 – 29, 2017

Departmental News

Posted: Apr 27, 2017 - 12:00am

Call for Papers

Critical race theory has transformed how scholars and activists study and understand race in the United States and beyond. Its tenets draw attention to the structural bases of race and ethnicity and its practical consequences, the role of intersectionality in producing inequality, and how racial projects are formed and altered. Few intellectual movements have so radically shaped how we think about racial inequality.

The New Directions in Critical Race and Ethnic Studies conference will focus on the legacy, contributions, and future of critical approaches to the study of race and ethnicity; particularly, the role of critical race and ethnic studies in promoting social justice.

We are currently accepting abstract submissions of no more than 200 words. All submissions must be received by February 1, 2017. Please send abstracts to criticalracesoc@utk.edu.

Potential topics include:

  • Capitalism
  • Colorblindness
  • Diversity
  • Global racism
  • Immigration
  • Institutions
  • Intersectionality
  • Legal vs. sociological critical race theories
  • Permanence of racism
  • Policing
  • Racialization processes
  • Racism on campus
  • Revisionist history
  • Scholarly activism
  • Science
  • Social media
  • Social movements
  • The state
  • Whiteness
  • #BlackLivesMatter


We welcome both young and established scholars, as well as activists, to submit an abstract or attend the conference and engage in these important conversations. Registration is free and will be available soon.