Brothers of the Desert 6th Annual Wellness Summit

Brothers of the Desert is conducting our 6th annual wellness summit focusing on Black gay men and our allies in the Coachella Valley and beyond in-person on Saturday, March 22nd, 2025, at the new Riviera Resort Hotel and Spa in Palm Springs from 8:30 AM-4:30 PM.

Living authentically and being confident in expressing yourself is tied to overall health and well-being and can be challenged and supported by several factors. It is important for us in this moment to reflect on how to find and live in our truth. “The Power of Authenticity” is the theme of our summit. Join us as we offer the opportunity to learn from a diverse group of health and wellness experts. The one-day event features inspiring keynote presentations and innovative workshops on a range of topics, such as spirituality, relationships, mental health, aging considerations, racism, physical health, intergenerational communication, healthy sex, and creative expression as a means of healing. Everyone is welcome to attend.

The summit begins with a meet-and-greet at 8:30 AM, and the program will start promptly at 9:00 AM. Participants can choose to attend concurrent workshops at three different times during the day and meet and connect with new people. Lunch will be provided, along with raffle prizes and entertainment. Space is limited, and registration is required.

A donation of $25 is suggested, and any amount given will be appreciated.

We are proud to announce that this year's keynote speakers will include New York Times best-selling author of All Boys Aren’t Blue, George M. Johnson,and reknowned physcian, David Malebranche, MD, and returning as host, film director Nathan Hale-Williams. The entire speaker line-up for 2025 will be revealed in the coming months. Past speakers have included Representative Malcolm Kenyatta, public health expert, Greg Millett, Bishop Yvette Flunder, film director, Nathan-Hale Williams, author Dante King, physician, Dr Leo Moore, psychiatrist Dr. Curley Bonds, and creative artists including Alton Fitzgerald White, Nhojj and Lorenzo Taylor.

Go to to see videos and photos from our previous summit.

Event Venue

Riviera Resort & Spa Palm Springs, 1600 North Indian Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, United States