After the Deluge: Reframing/Sustaining Critique in Post-Harper Canada (October 28-29, 2016)

full name / name of organization: 
Carleton University

Proposals are invited for an interdisciplinary conference hosted by Carleton University's School of Canadian Studies. We encourage submissions from scholars and graduate students working across disciplines.

When: October 28-29, 2016

Location: Carleton University, Ottawa

Deadline for Proposals: April 30, 2016

Canadian Studies scholars have long prided themselves on a robust critique of the Canadian State. This is particularly true of the post-recession/Harper era. During this time, the federal government launched attacks on the infrastructure that underpins academic research in this country, including the longform census, scientific inquiry, and Library and Archives Canada. The Harper government also hit the world of Canadian Studies at its doorstep by cancelling the Understanding Canada program in 2012. The loss of the Harper government for Canadian academics is not unlike the loss of George W. Bush for American comedians: the question in this moment of optimism (which may well have passed by the time this conference comes around) is … What do we do now?

The conference organizers welcome proposals for papers and panels (delivered in English or French) that address this challenge from any disciplinary or interdisciplinary approach. Possible topics include, but are not limited to:

- The politics of history and memory
- Resource development and environmental activism
- The relationship between Indigenous peoples and the Canadian state
- Canada's immigration and refugee policies
- Practicing positivity in community-based and academic projects
- Representations of Canada in art, literature, and popular culture
- Teaching critical thinking in relation to Canada
- Monuments and public celebrations

Please see more details, including the bilingual CFP, at the Conference Website: http://carleton.ca/canadianstudies/2016/2016-csn-rec-conference/

This conference will include the Annual General Meeting of the Canadian Studies Network-Réseau d'études canadiennes.

Please submit proposals (250 words) for papers or pre-formed panels by April 30, 2016 to peter.thompson@carleton.ca