The Liberian Studies Association is a non-profit, scholarly organization that provides a means for effective cooperation among persons interested in furthering research in all scholarly disciplines on topics relevant to the Republic of Liberia.

“To the question why study Liberia, or why a forum devoted to the study of Liberia, the answer inevitably is two-fold: one, to serve the end of disinterested pursuit and advancement of knowledge, and two, to serve the end of development of the nation and people of Liberia.”
- D. Elwood Dunn

LSA 56th annual conference April 24-26, 2025 Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD

Equity, Inclusivity, Gender, and Development: New Trends and Challenges

April 24-26, 2025 Morgan State University Baltimore, MD

The LSA 56th conference seeks to provide a platform for academics, civil society, and the private sector stakeholders to exchange ideas, share experiences, and collaboratively design strategies and new perspectives for equity, inclusivity, gender, and development in Africa in general and specifically in Liberia.

The conference will focus on envisioning the future and the imperative of nurturing sustainable progress in Liberia. Liberia is poised at the juncture where strategic foresight and long-term vision are crucial for shaping inclusive, equitable, and sustainable development trajectories. By exploring the sub-themes of innovation, governance, and social transformation, this conference seeks to foster meaningful dialogues and generate actionable practices to advance nation building.

Presenters will examine and posit instruments and new trends to confront the challenges of marginalization and exclusion. Presenters will explore strategies for addressing socio-economic inequalities, promoting gender equality, empowering marginalized communities, and highlighting the significance of preserving cultural heritage, promoting cultural diversity, and leveraging the arts as catalysts for social cohesion and sustainable development.

Abstract Submission:

FINAL DEADLINE FOR Abstracts: January 15th, 2025

INQUIRIES: liberianstudiesassociation@gmail.com

LSA invites proposals for individual papers, panels, and roundtables that explore scholarship and debates on the theme of the conference. Presenters may submit individual proposals and may also participate in a panel or roundtable. The conference is designed for participatory and engaging discussions, and we will endeavor to include an array of presenters. Individual abstracts should include presenter’s name, title, email, affiliation, and statement about the topic. A panel has no more than three presenters, and a discussant and should include names of the presenters, their affiliation, email addresses and the statement of the abstract’s topic. Roundtables have a chair and four discussants to explore various sides of a single topic.

All proposals should be sent to Dr. Samuel Wai Johnson, Jr, Chair, Abstract Committee at <samwaijohnson@gmail.com - copied to jsb25@cornell.edu / liberianstudiesassociation@gmail.com