Black Artistic Freedom Conference 2026
About
The Center of Racial Justice and Youth Engaged Research, College of Education, W.E.B. DuBois Center, and UMass Amherst Libraries present the Black AF (Artistic Freedom) Conference.
Black AF Conference
February 21–22, 2026
UMass Amherst College of Education
What does it mean to heal through art? How do the conversations that scholars, creatives, and activists have through literacy, language and unapologetic expression shape the culture that we live in? If we do not continue to incite the revolution now, then when?
Call for proposals
We are currently inviting proposals for the theme, "Turn this TV Off: Hip-Hop as the Revolution for Social Commentary, Critical Conversations, and Resisting the Pressure to Conform."
Events
This year's conference will include the W.E.B. DuBois Poetry Slam, the Arts & Activism Symposium, and the Black AF Closing Reception. More details coming soon.
Tickets & lodging
Ticket information coming soon.
Rooms at Hotel UMass are limited; please book early.
Support the Black AF Conference
Donations are welcomed to support this conference. Please list "Black AF Conference" under "Special Gift Instructions."