The NERCPAL conference at Howard University in Washington DC is dedicated to exploring the commodification of African languages and cultures. The theme urges participants to critically examine the concept of commodification, considering how and why African languages and cultures are discussed in monetary terms. The conference addresses linguistic markets, emphasizing the importance of packaging languages effectively for the right audience. It invites exploration of African languages in the diaspora and the continent, highlighting how speakers and students have redefined these languages to add value. The event encourages a nuanced discussion on language commodification, touching on preservation, maintenance, vitality, and identity. Scholars, language practitioners, and stakeholders from various disciplines are invited to contribute to this dialogue, aiming to reshape language program curricula. The conference emphasizes the significance of African languages, representing over a third of the world's languages and playing a crucial role in fostering critical global understandings. 

Deadline: January 5th, 2024 (11:59pm ET)

Contact: leonard.muaka@howard.edu | yaw.asare@bison.howard.edu