Call for Proposals: Special Issue of The Public Historian in Partnership with the Association of African American Museums
Public History as Resistance: The Evolution of Black Museums, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and Cultural Spaces
Submission Deadline: December 31, 2024
The Public Historian, in partnership with the Association of African American Museums (AAAM), invites scholars, practitioners, educators, and community members to submit proposals for a special issue that critically examines the role of Black museums, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and cultural spaces as sites of learning, engagement, community activism, and civil rights within the context of public history. This issue will coincide with the 50th anniversary of the Association of African American Museums.
Background:
In the ongoing struggle for justice, equity, and the amplification of marginalized voices, public history has emerged as a potent tool of resistance and empowerment. Black museums, HBCUs, and cultural spaces have played a pivotal role in preserving and sharing the histories and experiences of African Americans, challenging dominant narratives, and serving as centers of community activism. This special issue seeks to explore the multifaceted nature of these institutions and their contributions to the ongoing fight for social change.
We Invite Proposals That Explore (but are not limited to):
– Historical Narratives and Counter-Narratives: How have Black museums and cultural spaces redefined historical narratives and advanced counter-narratives that challenge traditional accounts of African American history?
– Educational Initiatives: What innovative educational programs and initiatives have been
developed within HBCUs and Black museums to promote community engagement, social justice, and civil rights education?
– Community Activism: How have these institutions mobilized communities to address pressing social and political issues, both historically and in contemporary contexts?
– Archives and Collections: What roles do archives and collections within Black museums and HBCUs play in preserving and disseminating the stories of resistance, resilience, and cultural heritage?
– Exhibition Strategies: How have exhibition strategies evolved to engage diverse audiences and foster conversations on race, identity, and social justice?
– Cultural Spaces: What is the significance of cultural spaces, including heritage festivals, art centers, and performance venues, in fostering activism and social change?
Submission Guidelines:
– Proposals should be no longer than one double-spaced page and include a brief author bio.
– Submissions must be sent to shcase@ucsb.edu with the subject line “Public History as Resistance Proposal Submission.”
For inquiries and further information, please contact Sarah Case, editor, The Public Historian.
This special issue aims to deepen our understanding of the transformative power of Black museums, HBCUs, and cultural spaces in the fight for justice and civil rights. We look forward to receiving your proposals and contributions to this important discourse.
About The Public Historian:
The Public Historian is a leading peer-reviewed journal in the field of public history. It publishes the results of scholarly research and case studies, and addresses the broad substantive and theoretical issues in the field. Learn more about it here.
About the Association of African American Museums (AAAM):
AAAM is a national organization dedicated to supporting African and African American focused museums nationally and internationally, as well as the professionals who protect, preserve, and interpret African and African American art, history, and culture.