Over the past 50 years, scholars of various disciplines have pieced together the vibrant field of Appalachian Studies. From its earliest days, scholars of Appalachian Studies have fought for a better future for the region plagued by the crises of mono-industry economies; extreme resource extraction, such as Mountaintop Removal; pollution of air and water; underdevelopment of local governments, infrastructure, and education; prison-building; and general political, economic, and environmental marginalization. Despite the heavy toll of these intersecting crises, the region’s people remain resilient and hopeful they can create change. 

While this panel will focus on the future that residents have strived to create from these crises over the years, it also pays attention to the historical development of these crises and the modern misconceptions that make change difficult. First, and foremost, this will challenge the false perception of Whiteness in the region, highlighting the richly diverse history of the region. Second, this panel will also pushback against modern political conceptions of Appalachia created in media coverage of recent elections. Whether in the pockmarked, decapitated hills of eastern Kentucky or the stripped and denuded forests of Western North Carolina, Appalachians have fought to protect their homes, environment, children's future. This fight is far from over; the drive created by these crises keeps it alive and well in the region. 

Organizer: Jacob Johnson 

Please submit abstracts to Jacob Johnson at jacob.johnson74@uky.edu by 15 December 2023.

Modality: Hybrid