An Important Update on the 2025 IA National Gathering

Dear IA community, 

We write with news that IA will not be hosting the 2025 IA National Gathering with the University of Cincinnati this fall. Please know that Imagining America will have a gathering this year, but the location and dates are now to be determined.  

A pending state bill in Ohio has left our deeply respected colleagues at the University of Cincinnati unprotected against the potential disturbing new law. SB1 passed in the Ohio Senate and has advanced to the house, despite significant public testimony against it. If passed, SB1 would impose multiple requirements and limitations on discussion of so-called controversial topics in higher education classrooms and diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. The bill would also limit faculty from striking and collective bargaining over faculty evaluation policies, including tenure. Despite campus protest against the pending legislation and the potential for amendments as the bill goes through the Ohio House of Representatives, campus leaders at the University of Cincinnati have determined that they are unable to host the 2025 IA National Gathering.  We stand with our University of Cincinnati colleagues and Cincinnati community partners who have generously given time and wisdom to the gathering planning process. 

We know that the challenges in Ohio are not unique and that many of you are facing uncertain futures while also strategizing and building networks of support. We are here to support you and want to hear what you are facing and how we might help. Central to the vision, mission, and values of Imagining America is to connect, convene, and advocate for the many artists, scholars, students, and leaders in our national network producing powerful public scholarship and creative works. In keeping with our commitments, we are determined to hold an in-person IA National Gathering this coming year. In the meantime, we created a virtual monthly space for us to come together, Building Communities of Care: In These Times, hosted by IA leadership. Join us on Wednesday April 2 at 2pm PT / 4pm CT / 5pm ET for an open online space to connect, reflect, and plan. Register here to attend. 

Stay tuned for announcements about the 2025 IA National Gathering in the weeks ahead. We are regrouping, standing strong together, and looking forward to experiencing the magic we always create at the IA National Gathering. Feeling community joy and building collective power is as important in 2025 as ever. 

With care,
Erica Kohl-Arenas, Faculty Director
Stephanie Maroney, Managing Director