Call for Work

We are excited to announce the annual Middle East and North African (MENA) Studies Symposium, taking place this spring from Tuesday, February 18th, to Thursday, February 20th, 2025. The MENA Symposium is an interdisciplinary event dedicated to showcasing the cultures, histories, and contemporary issues of the MENA region through lectures, panels, and workshops.

This year’s theme, “Migration and Motion,” will explore the dynamics of migration in the MENA region—examining cultural exchanges, the shaping of identity through mobility, and the socio-political and economic implications of migration. Through this theme, we aim to delve into the challenges and opportunities presented by migration and explore the resilience and cultural diversity it fosters.

We are calling for student papers that address this theme and the region for diverse perspectives. Submissions may include, but are not limited to:

• Historical accounts of migration in the MENA region.
• Analyses of contemporary migration trends and their impact on MENA societies.
• Cultural, artistic, and literary expressions related to mobility.
• Case studies on policies affecting migration and diaspora communities.
• Other topics related to the MENA region.

Selected students will have the opportunity to present their work at the symposium, engage with peers and experts, and contribute to enriching discussions about the region.

Please send any questions to middleeast@lclark.edu. Submissions should be made using this form. Submissions will be reviewed starting on Wednesday, December 18th, 2024.