Although the beginning of Langston Hughes’ poem “Tired” was written almost 100 years ago, it is relevant today.  Differences and divides figure prominently in lived experiences from many parts of the contemporary world as well as in academic life.  Whereas differences and divides are not new, current times prompt questions such as:

• How do we, as literacy educators, embrace diversities and collaborate to develop solutions across deep divides?  What are alternatives to these deep divides?
• How might literacy educators and researchers propose solutions or make inroads towards bridging divides?
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of differences? How are these advantages and disadvantages revealed in literacy research and practice? Who benefits? Who gets harmed?
• How might scholars pursue different perspectives within literacy, and outside the field, to cultivate productive literacy teaching and learning?

The theme for this year’s LRA conference—engaging with others to cultivate productive action across differences and divides—foregrounds the importance of individual and collective introspection and action.  This theme challenges us, as literacy researchers, to engage actively, critically, civilly, and collaboratively with others to identify problems and enact solutions for the common good.

Cynthia H. Brock, Conference Chair

Patriann Smith, Associate Conference Chair