RSA Conference 2024

May 23–26, 2024, Denver, CO

Just Rhetoric

The theme of the RSA 2024 biennial conference, “Just Rhetoric,” is meant to be generative and provocative. The theme allows us to imagine the possibilities of rhetoric as well as grapple with the meaning and place of rhetorical studies in this contemporary moment. “Just Rhetoric” allows us to examine rhetoric in relationship to social justice and freedom movements of the past and present. “Just Rhetoric” calls on us to question what is just, what is fair, and how rhetoric can help us achieve justice today. “Just Rhetoric” encourages us to explore the possibilities of public-facing rhetoric and gives us cause to question rhetoric’s role in the public sphere. “Just Rhetoric” is a space for us to just do rhetoric. And “Just Rhetoric” is about reclamation. For too long “just rhetoric” has been used to dismiss rhetoric. The 2024 conference will be a place to refute and refuse such dismissals.

When we gather in person for our 21st biennial conference we will continue some of the discussions we started in the 20th biennial conference in Baltimore. Change is at the core of many discussions about social justice because change must occur for us to create the fair and just world that we want to live in. We ask members to consider what is a just rhetoric and how might our field leverage our rhetorical skills in the creation of a more just society.

CALL FOR PROPOSALS

We invite members to join us in the magnificent and scenic city of Denver as we continue old discussions and spark new ones. The submission portal will be open from May 15th through August 15th, 2023. It will feature more guidance and instructions for submitting:

  • Individual paper abstracts (maximum of 500 words)
  • Panel proposals of no more than 4 presenters (maximum of 1250 words)
  • Roundtable proposals of no more than 6 presenters (maximum of 1250 words)
  • Special format sessions of non-traditional design (maximum of 500 words)
  • Discussion Group Proposals (maximum 1250 words)

Individuals may not submit more than two proposals either individually or as part of a panel or session. Discussion Group proposals do not count against the two submissions. All participants who are accepted will be required to renew their membership or join RSA to present at the conference. We encourage members to attend the May 5 RSA Remote, “Writing and Reading Conference Proposals: Tales from Longtime Conference Presenters and Reviewers,” for tips on writing a successful proposal.

We are excited to read your proposals and look forward to seeing you all in Denver, Colorado in 2024.

The Co-Chairs: Gwendolyn D. Pough, Bernadette Calalfell, Tamika L. Carey, Andre E. Johnson, Lisa M. King, Erin J. Rand

Submissions due August 15, 2023

DENVER INFORMATION

Urban sophistication meets outdoor adventure in Denver. Get acquainted with The Mile High City, including history, transportation and neighborhood guides. Welcome to Denver where 300 days of sunshine, a thriving cultural scene, diverse neighborhoods and natural beauty combine for the world’s most spectacular playground.

Conference Hotel

Sheraton Denver Downtown

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