Puerto Rican Author Giannina Braschi to Lead the American Studies Association Conference

The American Studies Association (ASA) stands as the oldest and largest scholarly organization dedicated to interdisciplinary research regarding U.S culture and history within a global framework. This year, in a captivating event, they will welcome nearly 2,000 academics, writers, artists, and activists from around the world to Puerto Rico. The annual conference, themed "Late-Stage American Empire?", is scheduled to take place in San Juan from November 19 to 22, 2025.

The spotlight of the conference will be on the legendary Puerto Rican author and political philosopher, Giannina Braschi, famous for her significant contributions to literature and for her confrontational political commentary. She will deliver the keynote address and is recognized for her work, particularly her recent tragicomedy titled "PUTINOIKA", released by FlowerSong Press in 2024, which delves into contemporary political landscapes.

A Journey through Braschi's Works

Giannina Braschi has a diverse background that ranges from being a noted tennis champion and fashion model in her adolescence to becoming a literary icon. Her works have received acclaim from institutions such as the Library of Congress, which describes them as "avant-garde, influential, and even revolutionary". Braschi skillfully weaves together fiction, poetry, and political philosophy across languages including Spanish, Spanglish, and English, making her work accessible to a broader audience.

Some of her most notable works include “Estados Unidos de Banana”, a post-colonial classic that examines the decline of the American empire and the liberation of Puerto Rico, and "PUTINOIKA", which combines elements of humor and tragedy, tackling themes of complicity, pollution, and deceit as seen in the contemporary narratives surrounding Putin and Trump.

Braschi's stylistic versatility and innovative narrative forms have inspired numerous adaptations across different art forms, including song cycles, plays, photo books, paintings, graphic novels, animations, sculptures, industrial design, and urban planning theory.

A Highlight in Cultural Discourse

As part of the cultural celebrations for Public Humanities Day, the ASA will host its keynote session with Braschi on November 19, 2025, at 7:00 PM. This event will take place at the Humanities Puerto Rico headquarters, located in the historic Cuartel de Ballajá, right in the heart of Old San Juan. During this session, Braschi will perform a dramatic reading of her work, which promises to be a thought-provoking experience.

The event will also feature prominent scholars, including Cristina Garrigos, President of the Spanish Association of American Studies, Nuria Morgado, Director of the North American Academy of the Spanish Language, Tess O'Dwyer, President of the Academy of American Poets, and Carmen H. Rivera from UPR-RP. These esteemed guests will engage in a dialogue with Braschi, amplifying discussions not only about the Puerto Rican archipelago but also about contemporary American culture at large.

This public program is free and aims to encourage discourse and broaden perspectives regarding critical cultural issues. It invites attendees to immerse themselves in the insightful exchanges that are sure to arise during the event.

To attend Giannina Braschi's session or to access other activities related to Public Humanities Day, including screenings, live performances, and guided tours, interested individuals can visit the ASA's official site for free tickets.

For further information, please contact the ASA via email at [email protected].

This conference promises to contribute significantly to current discussions surrounding U.S. culture, identity, and its global implications, reinforcing the importance of interdisciplinary studies at this pivotal moment in history.