M2M Research Network Newsletter-November 2024

M2M Research Network Newsletter - November 1, 2024

Greetings from the Misogynoir to Mishpat (M2M) Research Network! November is here, and with it, the final stretch of the year. We know the next few weeks may feel packed with work and preparation, and we’re here to help you stay connected and supported.

Supporting Independent Scholars, Especially African-Descended Women

The journey of independent scholarship is often challenging, particularly for African-descended women who remain vastly underrepresented in full-time academic positions, especially within theological and religious studies. Research reveals that only around 25% of PhD graduates secure permanent academic roles, leaving the majority of scholars—many of whom are women of color—pursuing careers outside of traditional academia. This “shortfall” is often due to a lack of sustained institutional support and funding pathways, creating barriers that restrict the contributions of scholars who are already marginalized.

At M2M, we are deeply committed to addressing these challenges and promoting the work of independent scholars through meaningful partnerships and resources. Our focus includes:

• Access to Funding and Stipends: We are actively advocating for research institutions, universities, and potential collaborators (including church organizations) to create stipends and grants specifically for independent scholars. This support can bridge critical gaps, allowing these researchers to bring their work to completion and share it with broader audiences.

• Resource Accessibility: Independent scholars often lack access to essential resources, including library materials, office space, and institutional support. We aim to connect scholars with access to these resources, ensuring that their work is not hindered by structural limitations.

• Encouraging Dedicated Funds: By urging funders to reserve allocations specifically for independent scholars, we aim to alleviate the pressure these scholars face in securing support. This focus is essential, as institutions that support independent scholars stand to benefit significantly: they attract and retain high-caliber research output, enhance their visibility, and even open doors to additional funding opportunities.

Without this investment, universities and other academic organizations risk significant missed opportunities, as independent scholars are vital contributors who bring fresh perspectives, engage diverse audiences, and can significantly elevate institutional profiles. Supporting independent scholars isn’t just an investment in individual careers; it’s a contribution to the broader landscape of academia and society.

This Month's Highlights

We’re excited to present new opportunities to support your academic endeavors:

Funding Opportunities

Explore current funding possibilities with upcoming November deadlines. These include:

• Bloomsbury Publishers

• The British Academy

• International Writing Workshops

• And many more! These can help provide the financial support you need to continue your work.

Job Postings

• Fellowship opportunities including the Patrick Henry Fellowship and Apex Awards.

• Explore our resource section regularly for new opportunities as they arise.

Podcasts for Academic Enrichment

Explore podcasts that provide insights and discussions relevant to religious studies, theology, and ethics:

• New Books Network: This podcast features some of the most recent and impactful books in academia, offering an episode this month on Plantation Pedagogy: The Violence of Schooling Across Black and Indigenous Spaces by Bayley J. Marquez. This is an essential listen for those interested in educational equity and critical race studies.

• Womanist Bible Talk: Engage with womanist perspectives on the Bible, diving into discussions that resonate deeply within Black feminist and womanist theology.

• Beyond the Womanist Classroom: Focused on intersectionality in theology and social justice, this podcast enriches the discourse for scholars working at the intersections of faith and ethics.

These curated resources provide invaluable perspectives, particularly for scholars committed to exploring the intersections of faith, society, and justice.

Additional Resources for Your Scholarship

Our resource hub continues to offer an array of tools to aid your academic pursuits:

• Fellowships, Scholarships, and Grants: Stay updated with upcoming deadlines and application details to secure essential funding for your work.

• Calls for Papers: Featuring journals like Global Black Thought and Black Women and Religious Cultures, along with upcoming American Academy of Religion (AAR) and Society of Biblical Literature (SBL) regional conferences.

• Academic Job Listings: A regularly updated list of relevant job openings, helping you take the next step in your career.

By sharing these opportunities within your network, you contribute to our mission to uplift the valuable scholarship of Black women and independent scholars in academia.

Upcoming Blogs and Discussions

We’re preparing insightful content on these key topics:

• Ethics and Citizenship: Examining the ethical responsibilities we hold as scholars and active members of society.

• Black Women in Religious Leadership: A look at the unique challenges faced by African-descended women in both academic and clergy roles.

• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): A deep dive into DEI not as a formality, but as a transformative academic and institutional tool.

We hope these discussions spark engaging dialogues and offer fresh perspectives within our network and beyond.

Final Thoughts

As 2024 draws to a close, the M2M Research Network remains steadfast in our mission to support and celebrate scholars often left on the periphery of mainstream academia. We recognize and value the transformative power of your work, and we are here to help you flourish.

Be sure to visit our website regularly for the latest on seminars, coaching opportunities, and resources. Whether you are navigating academia independently or from within an institution, M2M is here to support your journey.

Warm regards,

Dr. Nash and The Misogynoir to Mishpat (M2M) Research Network © 2024