CAA is pleased to announce the launch of a new discussion group series: CAA Reacts.
CAA Reacts is specifically geared toward discussing with a local lens the social, political, and cultural factors that affect our profession. The discussions will call into question the idea of archivists as neutral or passive agents, as has traditionally been the standard. Themes such as grassroots organizing, community archiving, local and national political issues and events, allies and partners to our profession, and more, will be discussed in an informal, open and empathetic environment. This series takes inspiration from groups like ProjectARCC, The Concerned Archivists Alliance, and the 2017 SAA panel “Archival Advocacy and Awareness Amid Social and Political Upheaval,” and aims to discuss like ideas while also highlighting the important work that our local colleagues do as active agents of change.
The first event will be held November 2 at 6 PM at the Red Lion Pub, as an informal discussion about connecting to the communities who would benefit the most from the collections we steward. We have invited fellow CAAer and Assistant Archivist at DePaul University, Derek Potts, who will start of the discussion by talking about his work with the Anthony Rayson zine collection and DePaul's program which provides copies of archival materials to people who are incarcerated.
This event is open to all, CAA membership is not required. Food and drink available for purchase.
Registration is optional but helps organizers plan for the event.