4,000+ anthropologists gather in New Orleans to explore the theme of “Ghosts” and the ways the past haunts the present

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – November 6, 2025

WHO/WHAT
The American Anthropological Association (AAA) will host its 2025 Annual Meeting in New Orleans, November 19–23, at the Sheraton New Orleans and New Orleans Marriott.

Founded in 1902, AAA is the largest scholarly and professional organization of anthropologists, bringing together a wide range of experts, practitioners, and enthusiasts from across the globe. The meeting will gather more than 4,000 attendees and exhibitors from around the world to advance the field of anthropology, share cutting-edge research, and connect through professional development and networking. This year’s theme, “Ghosts,” draws inspiration from New Orleans’ reputation as “the most haunted city in America.” Attendees will examine how the past lingers in the present, how the unseen shapes everyday realities, and how memory and history influence modern life.

This year’s Annual Meeting has a record-breaking 1,751 session submissions, an increase of 165% over last year, promising dynamic discussion, creative scholarship, and global perspectives.

Local media are welcome to attend with valid credentials and advance registration for a media pass. Spokespersons available for interviews include AAA President Whitney Battle-Baptiste, Incoming President Carolyn Rouse, Executive Director Ady Arguelles-Sabatier, and Executive Program Committee Chair Dr. Ryan Gray.

WHERE
Sheraton New Orleans Hotel
500 Canal Street

New Orleans Marriott
555 Canal Street 

WHEN
Nov. 19–23, 2025

SOCIAL MEDIA
Website: https://annualmeeting.americananthro.org/
Facebook: @American Anthropological Association  
Instagram: @americananthro  
X: @AmericanAnthro
YouTube: @americananthropologicalass2587
LinkedIn: American Anthropological Association

MEDIA CONTACTS
AAA:

Jeff Martin, Senior Director, Development & Member Relations, jmartin@americananthro.org, 240.393.1149
Josh Cohn, Digital Marketing and Membership Manager, jcohn@americananthro.org, 202.689.4196

New Orleans & Company:
Kelly Schulz, kschulz@neworleans.com, 504.421.0962
Rhonda Cook, rcook@neworleans.com, 504.616.6161