Welcome to Congress 2021
From May 27 - June 4, 2021, join us for the 90th anniversary edition of the Congress of the Humanities and Social Sciences, for the first time delivered virtually to thousands of participants across Canada and around the world.
For the past five years, the University of Alberta has been building towards this moment. Our students, researchers, logistical teams, and leadership have worked tirelessly to ensure an outstanding experience for everyone involved. And now, we’re poised for success, with hundreds of technical experts and volunteers standing by to support our presenters, audience members, and special guests.
This year’s theme of Northern Relations, and our focus on anti-Black racism and decolonization, are an invitation to tackle some of the most challenging issues of the day, and we’re ready to stage those vital conversations. As partners of the Federation for the Humanities and Social Sciences, we’re proud to play host to the largest virtual academic conference in Canadian history.
With scores of simultaneous events happening, Congress 2021 will be driven from a central hub in the Main Gym of the Van Vliet Complex, and supported by hundreds of volunteers working remotely. We’ve taken every precaution to ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved.
Volunteers at Congress 2021 will play an essential role in this important event. As a volunteer, you will gain valuable virtual skills experience supporting the operations of Canada’s largest virtual gathering of scholars, while working with a team to deliver a memorable conference experience for attendees. To find out more about positions, click here.
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CONGRESS 2021 VIDEOS
Hear what University of Alberta scholars hope for Congress 2021, find out more about the Congress 2021 theme of “Northern Relations,” and learn about some of the Northern research initiatives in the Social Sciences and Humanities at the University of Alberta.
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BIG THINKING
The Big Thinking series is held throughout Congress and brings together leading scholars and public figures who present forward-thinking research, ideas and solutions to the critical questions and issues of our time. The series is open to all Congress registered attendees and to members of the general public registering with a community pass.
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COMMUNITY PASSES
Whether your interests lie in history, literature, politics, poetry, sociology, media, film or fine arts, there’s bound to be something for you. From the weighty to the quirky, we have it all! With so much excellent programming to explore, the options can be overwhelming. Here are a few suggestions that will help you navigate what’s out there, and what’s available to you, as a member of the community.