23rd International Conference on New Directions in the Humanities
The Twenty-Third International Conference on New Directions in the Humanities is a vibrant and inclusive gathering that unites scholars, researchers, and practitioners from diverse backgrounds. Hosted by the University of Hawaii at Hilo, this conference serves as a dynamic platform for scholarly exchange and collaboration. Participants converge to explore fresh perspectives, innovative practices, and interdisciplinary dialogues within the realm of humanities.
This year’s theme “Oceanic Journeys: Multicultural Approaches in the Humanities” not only brings into focus the rich cultural tapestry of the Pacific region, but also celebrates the multifaceted narratives of all lands as oceans bind and connect us all on this planet. We invite scholars to embark on voyages across disciplinary, geographic and cultural boundaries with the following themes and beyond:
Critical Cultural Studies: In the context of oceanic journeys, critical cultural studies examine how cultural identities intersect, evolve, and adapt within the global expanse. This can also include exploration of indigenous knowledge, diaspora experiences and studies, the impact of globalization on local cultures, and the relationship of humanities to technology, the learning sciences, economics and knowledge domains.
Communication and Linguistics Studies: Language serves as a vessel for oceanic journeys—connecting distant shores, preserving oral traditions, and facilitating cross-cultural exchange. Investigating communication and human interactions, representation and expression through art, media, technology and design, linguistic diversity, language revitalization efforts, and the role of communication technologies in bridging communities are just some of the ways we honor the power of words and their ability to transcend borders and unite minds.
Literary Humanities: Literature has always been a vehicle for exploration and discovery. The literary ocean beckons us with tales of migration, resilience, and cultural hybridity. From ancient oral epics to contemporary novels, the literary ocean invites us to explore its depths of life and imagination through richly layered storytelling.
Civic, Political and Community Studies: From climate change to sovereignty struggles, oceanic communities grapple with tides of change that affect the entire planet. Civic engagement, human formations of families, institutions, organizations, states, societies and communities, human rights, and globalization become our compass, guiding us toward a more just, peaceful and resilient world.
Humanities Education: Education is a transformative voyage. We reflect on pedagogical approaches in the humanities and humanistic social sciences that include honoring Indigenous knowledge systems, integrating traditional practices and fostering intercultural understanding. How can humanistic education empower learners to navigate the vast ocean of ideas and currents of the 21st century?
The program features thoughtful, meaningful exploration, cultural exchange and a celebration of the oceanic journeys that shape our shared humanity. Join us as we set sail together on this scholarly voyage, charting a multicultural approach to the humanities towards intercultural understanding, one that transcends disciplinary, geographic and cultural boundaries.
Deadline: March 25, 2025