The State of Utah 2023 Black Affairs Summit will take place on Friday, Sept. 29 and Saturday, Sept. 30. This year’s theme is “Building on our past and moving forward: 15 years of BFSA.”

The summit is hosted by the Black Faculty and Staff Association (BFSA) and supported by the University of Utah. A major goal of the university and many of its diverse departments is to improve the racial climate as well as promote success for students and staff, transform lives, and promote proactive strategies to improve holistic health and quality of life.

This year, the summit is being expanded to include two days of activities:

Friday, Sept. 29: The event starts with an academic symposium highlighting research by members of the BFSA and introducing programs and initiatives that support Black students, staff, and faculty at the university. The opening keynote address will be presented by legendary poet, writer and activist Nikki Giovanni. A formal gala will conclude the Friday evening activities.

Saturday, Sept. 30: Day 2 continues with the Community Conversations and Networking Fair. The closing keynote address will be presented by theology scholar, Candice Benbow.

Topics discussed during the Community Conversations portion of the program include connecting with Black non-profit organizations, making homeownership a reality, creating opportunities for Black creatives, race and crime issues affecting the local Black community, K-12 education issues, along with a panel discussion with candidates seeking election.

The goal of the Summit and the BFSA is to strengthen community engagement and remind members of the Black community that we understand the complexity of navigating living in Utah and can relate to the experiences we all face. We want to emphasize the importance of belonging and are asking members of the community to come out to foster a stronger sense of connection.

We encourage members and supporters of Utah’s Black community to join us and register here Black Affairs Summit 2023.