PCA Statement of Support

As an organization, we, the PCA, believe in the value of gathering in person to engage in scholarly dialogues and to build community together as intellectuals committed to the exploration of popular culture. A core aspect of our mission is to value and amplify the voices of scholars from diverse backgrounds, disciplines, and perspectives. We value each member of the organization and the contributions they make, not only to the PCA, but to popular culture scholarship broadly.

The Governing Board of the PCA continues to monitor the current climate in the United States and globally. We recognize there are several concerns that are creating and amplifying fraught and unsafe environments for all people within the United States, especially for people from historically and culturally marginalized communities. As a Board, we are keenly aware of the current situation in the United States and will continue to seek ways to support our membership and the field of popular culture studies.

We recognize that some PCA members may have concerns about traveling to Atlanta, given developing circumstances. While PCA does not have legal resources available to our members, we recommend that members reach out to their universities, institutions, and home country governments, and/or consulates prior to making travel arrangements to determine your viability to attend, and that you bring various proof of citizenship or residency, in addition to a driver’s license or passport. Additionally, the ACLU and National Immigration Law Center offer information about the rights of travelers. We are working toward short-term solutions in Atlanta to support international scholars impacted by travel advisories and bans, and we will provide proof of invitations to present at the annual conference for any member who needs official documentation.

We invite members to reach out to us to share concerns, to discuss individual circumstances, and even to offer suggestions for a path forward. We also invite members present at the annual conference in Atlanta to attend various opportunities where feedback is encouraged, (such as the Belonging, Outreach, and Membership Open Meeting and the Town Hall). If you prefer, feel free to speak with individual board members at the conference or through email. To reach out to the Board as a whole, email contact@pcaaca.org. You can find individual Board members through the PCA website under the About tab at the link for PCA Leadership.

The Popular Culture Association (PCA) Annual Conference is a fantastic opportunity to engage with fellow enthusiasts and scholars in the field of popular culture. So mark your calendars and make plans to participate in this exciting event in Atlanta, Georgia in April 2026.

Regardless of where you are in your academic journey, PCA's Annual Conference is the right place for you. Take advantage of our many opportunities to present your paper, network with colleagues to promote your career, find your publishing opportunities, and hear from top presenters.