Afrofutures: Build Community and Shape the Future of Black Arts
A day of connection, dialogue, and celebration with Black Arts @ WAA and artEquity.
Afrofutures in the Arts is a day-long symposium created by and for Black artists and other Black arts professionals in the performing arts. Hosted by Black Arts @ WAA, this gathering is dedicated to strengthening our field, supporting one another, and imagining bold futures for Black arts.
This year’s program centers relationship-building , deep dialogue, and visionary thinking. Designed for artists, administrators, agents, and community members, Afrofutures offers space to address the most urgent challenges and celebrate the enduring strengths of our community.
We begin with fellowship to make visible the important and vibrant Black arts community before moving into the core program led by artEquity.
Founded in 2015, artEquity is a Black and woman-led national organization dedicated to advancing equity in the arts through leadership development, training, and community building. With over 15,000 participants, artEquity focuses on supporting BIPOC artists and cultural workers by addressing power dynamics and fostering collective action for social change at the intersection of arts and activism, offering intentional support for Black artists and leaders.
artEquity will guide participants through a conversation to:
Discuss the current state, challenges, and achievements of Black performing arts, focusing on artistic freedom, censorship, and safety.
Reflect on past strategies that sustained Black arts, exploring both their successes and shortcomings.
Identify actionable steps for the future through intergenerational exchange and innovative approaches.
We will close this year’s program with a session on care, resilience, and collective support to affirm shared experiences and highlight strategies that sustain Black arts professionals in their creative and professional lives.
Afrofutures in the Arts is open to all self-identified black arts professionals and community members and will be held onsite at the J.W. Marriott at L.A. Live. Registration is $165 and can be purchased on our conference registration website through August 22. The experience also includes The Land You’re On, a special program with L.A. Tribal leaders sharing history, culture, and community.
Leave inspired, equipped with practical tools, and ready to bring fresh perspectives back to your work. Space is limited, registration is open through August 22
Note: For allies and colleagues outside the Black community, the conversation and learnings from Afrofutures will continue throughout the week, including Wednesday’s Diversifying the Touring Network session, an interactive working session focused on building a broader, more inclusive touring ecosystem.