Oral Histories of Environmental Illness(OHEI) Symposium 

Canary Knowledge: Chronic Fatigue, Chemical Sensitivities and the Limits of Medicine

With the surge in numbers of “unrecovered” from the Co-V2 pandemic, the public’s interest has turned to disability and caregiver activism, ongoing remissions protocols, and patient-led research networks established by those living with chronic fatigue, multiple chemical sensitivity, tick-borne illnesses, and autoimmune conditions (e.g. HIV, lupus, Crohn’s). This conference bridges the immediate before and after of Co-V2’s effects on this growing population of the chronically ill, and often medically abandoned, to ask how they—like the proverbial canaries in the coal mine—have defined and laid the groundwork for disability justice, art, and activism.

This event is part of a three-year multi-campus research grant at the University of California focusing on “Abolition Medicine and Disability Justice: Mapping Inequity and Renewing the Social Project.”

Fragrance-free: 

Please avoid wearing scented products such as perfumes/colognes, scented lotions, clothing with strong detergent scents, etc. while attending this event as they can trigger serious health issues for those with fragrance allergies. We aim to maintain a welcoming and accessible environment for all faculty, staff, students, and visitors. Thank you for your consideration for all members of our community. For more information.

Event Details:

• Panel details to come. RSVP to stay up to date on symposium information.
• Masking is strongly encouraged.
• The symposium panels are being filmed. By entering the space, you will be giving us permission to film you. If you object to being filmed, please let us know and we can seat you in a section not visible on the camera.
• Download the flyer (PDF)

Co-sponsors:

• Disability Studies
• Division of Social Sciences
• Vice Chancellor for Research & Creative Activities Roger Wakimoto

Hybrid event. The event will be in-person and live-streamed on CSW|Streisand Center’s YouTube channel @UCLACSW.