“Perspectives in History”
The 2021 Oklahoma History Conference will be held April 21–23, 2021, at the NCED Marriott Conference Center and Hotel in Norman, Oklahoma. The conference is organized by the Oklahoma Historical Society (OHS) and offers scholars, students, historians, and authors from across the state and country a forum to share their work with history enthusiasts. This year the OHS is adding professional development sessions in archival and museum studies.
Optional conference activities typically include a reception, tours, a conference luncheon, and an awards luncheon. The awards luncheon features the induction of the individuals into the Oklahoma Historians Hall of Fame and the presentation of additional awards.
Call for Proposals
The Oklahoma Historical Society is seeking proposals for the 2021 Oklahoma History Conference, which will be held April 21–23, 2021, in Norman, Oklahoma.
The theme of the conference is “Perspectives in History.” Sessions will be 45 minutes in length and may include traditional presentations, research sessions, discussion sessions, or lightning talks. In addition, professional development sessions will be included in this year’s schedule. Currently, the conference is expected to be held in-person. There is a possibility the conference may be changed to a virtual event.
The OHS is seeking proposals on a wide range of Oklahoma topics from traditionally underrepresented voices. Possible subjects include Oklahoma minorities in popular culture, women and minorities in Indian and Oklahoma Territories, underrepresented political or religious movements, and the social, cultural, and political impact of archives and exhibits. Proposals focusing on archival and museum studies are also welcome. We encourage submissions that explore these topics but remain open to submissions addressing other aspects of Oklahoma history. Graduate students are encouraged to submit.
Possible Topics
- Oklahoma Minorities Represented in Popular Culture
- Women and Minorities Pre-Statehood
- Underrepresented Religious or Political Movements
- Outreach Program Development
- Social, Cultural, and Political Impact of Archives and Exhibits
- Topics in Collections Management
Session Formats
- Traditional Presentations – lecture format with time for audience discussion
- Research Sessions – present findings, works in progress, or new methodologies pertaining to the conference themes
- Discussion Sessions – explore current work, recent findings, or new perspectives through discussion with or among audience members
- Lightning Talks – include multiple 10-minute presentations, within a 45-minute session. Each presentation should focus on an innovative project or program, compelling research, or “lessons learned” within a common topic.
Important Dates
Proposals are being accepted now and the deadline for submission is Monday, November 30, 2020. Those who submit proposals will be notified of their status by December 31, 2020. Registration fees for presenters will be waived.
Submit a Proposal
To submit a proposal, visit the OHS website (https://www.okhistory.org/about/conference) and download and complete the submission form and email to Director of Development and Special Projects Larry O’Dell at lodell@okhistory.org.