The 2025 SSSP presidential address. Insurgent sociology: toward emancipatory theory and action under racial capitalism

The theorization in this paper centers Insurgent Sociology as a deep pillar of the history of SSSP. Beyond that, in this era of multiple crises, insurgency and emancipatory practice must anchor our current commitment to transformational change. Indeed, in counterhegemony, Insurgent Sociology requires moving in solidarity with communities in struggle, visioning, and worldmaking for a different society, a just social order. Drawing upon primary documents, archival sources, conjunctural interrogation, and revolutionary theory, the analysis is framed through three-part theses. Thesis one is that the moment must be grounded historically, given the longer duration of Insurgent Sociology. Thesis two articulates the current conjuncture for understanding the correlation of forces and clarity about the moment. Thesis three develops a praxis of social transformation with Insurgent Sociology and emancipatory theory and action at its center. As we face challenges and possibilities, theory, research and practice are foundational to the struggle ahead. We must build from the best praxis given the transformational work that the period demands. We must move the question of “sociology for whom?” into confronting a deeply reactionary historical moment.