GIMME SHELTER: CALLING CALIFORNIA HOME

The 2004 California Studies Association conference will meet at Loyola Marymount University April 21, 22, & 23 2004. The program will explore the numerous implications of shelter. An essential requirement for all people – and other life forms – shelter signifies not only a “roof over your head,” but also connotes safe haven from such physical dangers as violence, war, and weather. The concept of shelter suggests fruitful examinations of the implications of politics and public policy in many areas like urbanization, including housing and commercial development, safety, social services, art, and education and their environmental consequences. Additional meanings of shelter, such as spiritual refuge; the significance of place, home, and identity; and, the psychology of extreme shelter, such as solitary retreat, hermitage, and imprisonment, might also be investigated.

We are soliciting panels of up to four speakers who are committed to raising important questions and engaging with a lively audience. Moderators are encouraged. Individual presentations may be accepted if they can be fit together into a panel. Non-traditional forms of discourse and presentation are welcome.

Loyola Marymount University is located just North of the Los Angeles International Airport, and just South of the new Playa Vista development, once home to the historic Howard Hughes aviation company. Lodging is available near by.

Please send proposals by December 15, 2003 to the contact below.