Many Voices, One Tennessee: Preserving Stories of the Past, Present, and Future
Call for Proposals
The Society of Tennessee Archivists invites proposals for its annual meeting at the University of Memphis October 8-9, 2026 engaging with the theme "Many Voices, One Tennessee." As we reflect on 250 years of American stories, this theme calls attention not only to the histories preserved within that timeframe but also to the voices, communities, and narratives that long predate it or are historically underrepresented within the record. By centering many voices, this conference seeks to foster dialogue, reflection, and action around how archives can more fully represent the breadth of Tennessee's past, present, and future.
We encourage proposals that explore the richness and complexity of Tennessee's documentary heritage. We are interested in learning how archives across Tennessee have acknowledged the 250th anniversary in their own communities. We especially welcome work that highlights marginalized and silenced voices, that challenges traditional archival practices and narratives, and speaks to shaping a more inclusive and expansive historical record.
Possible Topics Include (but are not limited to):
- Projects and events funded by the America 250 Grant
- Archival collections engaging with underrepresented populations including indigenous, African American, immigrant, refugee, and LGBTQ+ communities
- Cultural preservation including oral history initiatives and field recordings
- Community archiving and participatory practices
- Reparative archival work such as inclusive description and other initiatives
- Compliance with the ADA Title II digital accessibility deadline
- Materials and collections relating to early American history
- Highlighting new acquisitions, projects, initiatives, or grants in Tennessee archives
We welcome a variety of session formats, including:
- Individual papers (presentation time of 20 minutes with 10 mins Q/A)
- Lightning talks (short, 5-7 minute presentations)
- Panel presentation (3 to 5 speakers, presentations or discussion lasting 45 minutes)
- Workshops (presentation teaching new skills to attendees, lasting at least 1 hr)
- Poster sessions (48" x 36" poster summarizing research, collections, case studies, etc.)
- Screenings (30-60 minute screenings of archival material or new creations)
Please submit an abstract of no more than 300 words outlining your topic, approach, and relevance to the conference theme, along with a brief bio (100 words). Panel proposals should include a description of the session as a whole and abstracts for each participant.
