RaceB4Race symposia
Annual gatherings of scholars and thinkers of premodern critical race studies.
The new academic conference model
The annual RaceB4Race symposium invites scholars of premodern critical race studies from around the world to discuss and present research on a shared topic. Unlike traditional academic conferences, RaceB4Race is structured to provide equal time for presentations, group discussion, and community building. Established in 2019, RaceB4Race is the leading incubator of research and community in premodern studies.
Generally held at the end of January every year, RaceB4Race is a free symposium that is open to the public.
Upcoming symposia
Indigeneity: A RaceB4Race Symposium
February 7-8, 2025 | Arizona State University
The term 'indigeneity' must be considered as capaciously as possible in order to recognize its shifting valences of meaning across historical periods and geographies. The relationship between the Indigenous peoples and their land has always been a fundamental the notion of indigeneity. The term as it is commonly used today is largely in reference to native populations of certain lands who have become minorities in their own countries due to the incursion of settler colonialism. However, if we are to think expansively about indigeneity in our present moment, it is important for us to understand the native or aboriginal populations in the premodern world. This symposium seeks to expand and develop our understanding of indigeneity, from its place in the premodern world to its role in the present.
Past symposia
Check out the archive of past RaceB4Race symposia. Programs are available for download for all symposia, and many of the more recent events are recorded and available to watch on our YouTube channel.
Distinguished speakers
The ACMRS annual Distinguished Speaker Series is the keynote event of RaceB4Race. This event invites the larger public to join the RaceB4Race community for an evening with prominant artists, performers, writers and public figures whose work has been influenced by premodern art and culture.