The Annual Convening is one of the only annual large-scale gatherings created specifically for and by BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) leaders working in the arts.

These activities are designed to support and uplift BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) and/or Global Majority-identifying artists and arts leaders. All of AAC’s programs are co-designed with artists and arts administrators of color in AAC’s network including members of the private AAC Facebook group, past attendees that receive surveys via the listserv, advisors to the organization, AAC’s board, and members of AAC’s Cousin’s Regime.

Our convening has grown from serving 75 arts leaders at its inaugural gathering in 2017—when AAC was entirely volunteer-led—to engaging over 300 arts leaders annually and 500+ participants during our virtual convening in 2020. Each year, we craft a theme that responds to the evolving needs and current climate of our community.

Convening Goals 

• Share knowledge and provide space to skill-build from peers and experts that can then be applied back to attendees' personal and professional lives.

• Provide opportunities for BIPOC arts leaders to build networks and create meaningful personal relationships with other arts leaders.

• Amplify and promote the work of arts leaders who are making an impact in the field.

• Create a safe and culturally-affirming space for people to share the challenges of being a BIPOC in the arts.

We are always seeking support to assist with convening costs including venue and travel expenses for local site visits, stipends for speakers and other necessary convening components. Sponsorship plays an important role in keeping our convening as affordable and accessible as possible to our communities.