08/10/2026
📣 CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS | Journal of U.S.–ASEAN Studies
🏆 Mobilizing Soft Power: Sports, Community, and U.S.–Southeast Asian Engagement
Whether through local weekend soccer tournaments across North Carolina, youth athletic leagues, traditional community games, or international competitions, sports play a pivotal role in strengthening community ties, developing youth leadership, and maintaining cultural connections between Southeast Asian diaspora communities and the homeland. ⚽🏀
The Journal of U.S.–ASEAN Studies invites scholars, students, community advocates, and youth leaders within the Montagnard community of North Carolina to submit abstracts for an upcoming special journal edition exploring the strategic role of sports diplomacy and community soft power.
đź’ˇ Key Submission Themes
The journal seeks analytical articles, community case studies, and policy briefs on topics including:
Youth Leadership & Community Athletics: How sports programs, soccer leagues, and local athletic clubs build resilience, leadership, and educational opportunities for Montagnard youth.
Cultural Preservation & Diaspora Connectivity: The role of athletics in preserving cultural heritage and fostering intergenerational connections between North Carolina and Southeast Asia.
Mentorship & Social Cohesion: How community coaches, mentors, and local leaders leverage athletics for peacebuilding, social integration, and cross-cultural dialogue.
đź‘Ą Eligible Contributors
Contributions are welcome from a broad range of perspectives, including:
High school, undergraduate, and graduate students
Community organizers, elders, and youth leaders
Independent researchers, policy analysts, and advocates
Sports administrators, coaches, and local program coordinators
Academic affiliations are not required. Interdisciplinary and community-based perspectives are strongly encouraged.
đź“ť Manuscript Formats
Contributors may submit under four distinct format options:
Community & Industry Briefs: 1,500 – 2,500 words (Ideal for short program overviews or community analyses)
Policy Perspectives: 2,500 – 4,000 words
Case Studies: 3,000 – 5,000 words
Research Articles: 5,000 – 8,000 words
⏰ Key Deadlines & Production Timeline
October 30, 2026 – Abstract Submission Deadline: A 300-word summary outlining the proposed topic, approach, and significance.
November 13, 2026 – Selection Notice: Notification of accepted abstracts.
December 15, 2026 – Full Draft Due: Submission of completed manuscripts.
February 2027 – Publication Release & Policy Launch: Formal release of the special journal edition.
đź“© Submission Process
Interested authors should submit a 300-word abstract along with a brief author biography via email to [email protected] by October 30, 2026.
This special issue aims to ensure that the Montagnard community’s rich history, athletic traditions, and civic leadership are fully represented in broader discussions on U.S.–ASEAN relations. 🌍✨
