Anthropological Research and Action Today

Come join the Society for Economic Anthropology (SEA) and the Washington Association of Professional Anthropologists (WAPA) for an evening of new research, networking, and food and drinks. SEA and WAPA are hosting an American Anthropological Association reception at historic Charles Sumner School, 1201 17th Street NW, Washington, DC, Friday, December 1, 6:30-8:30 p.m. All are welcome to attend. 

Anthropological Research and Action Today 

This combined reception highlights the work of WAPA and SEA focused on understanding and addressing contemporary issues and problems through the lens of anthropology. Presenters will give short talks interspersed with discussion. Refreshments will be served. 

Voices of Virginia (2018-2020) -- WAPA presenters will talk about an exciting new study looking at voter attitudes and civic engagement in the swing state of Virginia. The recent 2016 U.S. elections and the contentious public debates that followed appear to show a nation divided. What is not clear is if this is indicative of what U.S. citizens and voters think and feel in local communities. Using qualitative data from six communities in the Commonwealth of Virginia, researchers will explore the extent to which people from different sociopolitical backgrounds share the divisive views permeating politics and the media and how this impacts civic engagement at the local level. Field researchers are currently being recruited for this study and interested anthropologists with and without experience are encouraged to attend. 

SEA members will showcase some of the uses of economic anthropology to approach problems in the US and elsewhere. Participants will discuss their involvement in toxic waste disposal, food waste legislation, long-term consequences of dam resettlement, and others. 

NOTE: This event is open to both attendees of AAA, SEA and WAPA members, and friends. Sumner School, managed by the US National Park Service, requires that you bring a picture ID to enter the building. We do not require AAA conference badge to attend.