The AAC Convening is a unique large-scale gathering created for and by BIPOC arts leaders, offering a culturally grounded space for connection, learning, and restoration. Each year’s convening is co-designed with our community to ensure the experience reflects the needs, brilliance, and priorities of arts administrators and creatives of the Global Majority.

Since our first convening in 2017—when 75 leaders gathered during AAC’s volunteer-led beginnings—the event has grown to engage an average of 300 arts leaders annually, including more than 500 participants during our 2020 virtual convening. Each convening centers a theme that responds to the evolving climate and lived experiences of BIPOC artists and arts administrators.

Our Convening Goals:

• Create space for shared learning, skill-building, and personal and professional growth.

• Build meaningful networks among BIPOC arts leaders.

• Amplify and celebrate the work and leadership of our community.

• Offer a safe, culturally affirming environment to name challenges and imagine new possibilities.

Sponsorships and partner support help keep the convening accessible by covering essential costs such as venues, travel for site visits, speaker stipends, and other core program elements.