Research

My research focuses on the transformative power of public discourse–in the oratorical performances of classical antiquity and the circuits of contemporary digital media.

I recently had the unique opportunity to travel to Doha, Qatar, to present original research on the power of rhetorical education to sustain democracy in the aftermath of revolution in the Middle East.

My new book, Soapbox Rebellion: Hobo Orator Union and the Free Speech Fights of the Industrial Workers of the World, 1909-1916 (University of Alabama Press), explores the historical connections between the labor movement and the struggle for freedom of expression in the United States.

My research and teaching interests include rhetorical studies, labor and social movements, cultural and political theory, argumentation, freedom of expression, and the history of American public address.  These interests are informed by my advocacy for social justice and experience organizing.

I have also worked with the National Humanities Alliance to lobby for nation-wide humanities funding on Capitol Hill.

For a comprehensive list of my publications, please check out my Curriculum Vita here: May_CV.