Seminar 16: Building Solidarity, Building Theory: Rhetorical Perspectives on Solidarity

Leaders: Noor Ghazal Aswad (University of Alabama) and Kendall Gerdes (University of Utah)

This seminar explores theories of solidarity, coalition, and collective action. In a global
yet increasingly divided world, solidarity remains an urgent political aspiration, a difficult
rhetorical practice, and a condition of possibility for rhetorical address and response. We invite
participants to examine how solidarity is imagined, articulated, negotiated, enacted, and even
negated across differences of identity, geography, language, history, and political experience.

Rather than treating solidarity as a stable condition or uncomplicated expression of
unity, we interrogate the range of approaches to solidarity currently developing in rhetorical
studies and adjacent fields. Which theories of solidarity are operationalized by labor activists
and by rhetors in social movements? How do rhetorical theories of solidarity draw on and speak
to these exigencies? If solidarity is an ongoing practice of relation-making and fellowship, then
how can people forge connections without necessarily erasing the differences, tensions, and
asymmetries that separate them? How do we anticipate error, take great leaps and yet still
build coalitions? What practices make engaging in solidarity sustainable?

We will look for answers to these questions by studying both historical and
contemporary social movements. Together, we will consider the rhetorical practices through
which solidarities emerge and circulate across borders and boundaries, asking how people build
coalitions, create counterpublics, translate struggles across contexts, and construct shared
political imaginaries in response to local and global urgencies.

Note from the organizers:
As per previous workshops, there may be pre-reading and pre-work required before June. Your leaders will reach out to you some time after registration with additional details.

There will be no A/V equipment available in this seminar. The seminar leaders encourage participants to bring charged devices with their preferred hardware and software pre-loaded, especially for any participants who have accessibility needs. You should indicate any accessibility needs on your registration form.