Conference Agenda

2023 marks nearly three years since the COVID-19 lockdowns began, and the grip of its world-altering chaos would take us, collectively, farther from the perception of normal professional working conditions than ever before imagined. Returning from this state of confusion has left many of us with feelings of both optimism and dread, and a mixed bag of post-pandemic experiences that reinforce both of those emotions. For marginalized groups in particular, discussions around professional expectations in and out of the academe have always been blurred by implicit, and often, explicit bias. Now, as interviews, conferences, and promotion actions move back to a blend of online and in-person modalities, the expectations have never been less clear.

In our workshop-style presentation, the Committee on Women and Gender will host a conversation and discussion about constructive ways in which institutions and organizations can clarify and make public their professional expectations for women, non-gender conforming and trans folks, and underrepresented individuals doing academic work. Specifically, our discussion will include discussions of: intersections of race, gender, and class in the workplace; how white feminism has driven conversations around professionalism; disability, motherhood, and/or caretaking; nonconformity and professionalism; and other related topics. Through inviting and resourcing noted experts and scholars from across the music fields, we hope to create a powerful network of activists who believe an inclusive professionalism is possible. Finally, our workshop will provide actionable ideas to be set into motion by the participants.