Labor history group issues call for papers for 2016 conference

(Oct. 20, 2015) — The Pacific Northwest Labor History Association will host its annual conference in Portland next May 20-22 under the theme, “Labor, Justice and the Environment: Historical Insights, Alliances and Challenges.” The group has issued a call for papers, presentations, performances, and… workshops.

“In 2016 we are particularly interested in proposals that address the relationship between workers, their unions and community partners, and the environmental justice issues of the modern era,” reads the PNLHA’s call. “These issues are particular crucial to workers in the Pacific Northwest because of the large number of natural resource-based jobs in our economy. What are the factors that have determined whether environmental issues have been unifying or divisive for labor throughout history? What are the historical antecedents to our current discussions over climate change and the policy implications for workers?”

Other topics the PNLHA of interest include:

● Organizing immigrant workers in the PNW

● Race and Labor in the Pacific Northwest

● Women workers in the PNW

● The 100th Anniversary of the Everett Massacre

● People of Color, immigrants and low-income workers in the resource-based economy

● Income inequality and popular movements

Proposals for presentations should include a 1-2 page summary, a list of presenters and/or papers to be delivered, a short biography or vita for each participant, and a list of any particular audio-visual needs. The deadline for proposals is Jan. 25, 2016. Please submit all proposals and queries electronically to: Marcus Widenor, Corresponding Secretary for the PNLHA Program Committee at mrwide@uoregon.edu

The PNLHA is a non-profit association of trade unionists, students, academics, and others dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of workers in British Columbia, Oregon and Washington.