From left to right: (1) Brenda Linares, MLA President-Elect, (2) Naomi C. Broering's history banner at MLA | SLA '23, (3) Bearded Pigs t-shirts.
MLA had its founding 125 years ago on May 2, 1898, and for several years now the association has been putting plans into place for celebrating our quasquicentennial. Several fun manifestations of these plans were present at MLA | SLA '23, highlights include:
- Standing banners near the meeting rooms which listed MLA milestones and past leaders (I had to get a picture with the Naomi C. Broering banner, being the first winner of her MLA Latinx Heritage Grant).
- A champagne toast at the opening of the exhibits/welcome reception.
- Historical artifacts at the MLA exhibit booth such as old meeting tote bags, MLA shot glass, Bearded Pigs t-shirts, and so much more.
- A super fun photo booth complete with props and an “MLA 125” backdrop.
- The singing of “Happy Birthday” and enjoying a special 125th birthday cake at the closing ceremony on the last day of the conference.
Other happenings that are ongoing this year include publishing the histories of caucuses (former sections/SIGs) and chapters on MLANET, plus other blog posts on general MLA history, and I know we’re all enjoying reading those. Histories are still being collected until September 30 and we definitely want to see everyone included!