Hello everyone,
On this first day of Congress 2024, I wanted to say a few words to you in my capacity as Chair of the Federation's Board of Directors.
This Congress is shaping up to be quite unlike any other. We are navigating this exceptional context, working together to organize Canada’s largest gathering of researchers.
For several weeks now, the Federation’s Board of Directors and leadership have worked tirelessly alongside the team to deliver a successful annual Congress, despite this unprecedented situation. I recognize that the last few weeks have also been very difficult for you, who hold a central role in the operational planning of your respective conferences.
All of us have had to show immense patience, understanding and flexibility in organizing our events. I'm impressed by the creativity you've deployed to ensure that today, more than ever, research in the humanities and social sciences can continue to shed light on the critical issues of our time, and thus contribute to the advancement of a democratic society.
Congress is also a gathering of great importance for our community, in particular for the next generation of students and scholars who depend on Congress to promote and advance their research. These contributions are the fruit of many months of work, culminating in their presentation at Congress. We have an essential role to play in promoting this research to policy-makers and the general public.
Our determination to hold this Congress, and our commitment to seeing this project through to the end, aims to fulfil our mission of advocating for the importance and impact of our disciplines in addressing societal challenges.
We understand your concerns, and those who will be joining us for Congress. We have a responsibility to ensure the security and safety of our attendees. We have prepared a robust contingency plan, and we will be ready to make the necessary decisions should the need arise.
Our relationship with our member associations is very important to us, and we are aware that the changes of recent weeks have resulted in additional expenses for many of you. On behalf of the Federation's Board of Directors, we have committed that once Congress has concluded, we will examine the possibility of providing financial support to associations. We will get back to you very soon with all the details.
But above all, we'll be inviting you to take part in the dialogue around rethinking the future of Congress. Together, we will ensure that this annual gathering reflects who you are, and brings us all together.
Now it's time for me to wish you all the best for your conferences. Whether in person or online, our hearts go out to you, and you can count on us to be with you, over the next ten days and beyond. Together, we have essential work to do in the years to come to preserve and promote our contributions to the humanities and social sciences.
Many thanks to all of you.