About this Event
Rite of Joy Conference 2026
April 2–3, 2026 | Keystone CoLab | Kansas City
Two days of healing, culture, creativity, and powerful conversations on Black and African American mental health.
The Rite of Joy Conference brings together artists, advocates, peer specialists, clinicians, and community members to explore how art, culture, and storytelling support healing and resilience.
This is not your typical conference. Rite of Joy blends workshops, performances, real conversations, and community connection to create a space where people can learn, recharge, and reconnect with joy.
What to Expect
Keynote Conversation
Featuring keynote speaker Dr. Nicole Price, an internationally recognized leadership expert known for her work on authenticity, courage, and building stronger communities.
ALL CONFERENCE PASS - Ticket purchase includes both days of the conference, meals, and evening activities.
SINGLE DAY PASS - Ticket purchase includes single day admission to the conference and meals - no evening activities.
Workshops and Conversations
Sessions exploring:
• Creative healing
• Mental health advocacy
• Storytelling and self expression
• Self advocacy in healthcare spaces
• Building stronger community support systems
Live Podcast Recording
Be part of a live podcast recording featuring artists, advocates, and mental health leaders discussing culture, creativity, and the realities of community healing. Attendees will get to experience the conversation in real time and see how these important stories are shared beyond the conference.
Spoken Word and Live Performance
Experience the power of poetry, storytelling, and artistic expression as performers share work rooted in healing, identity, and culture.
The Rite of Joy Poetry Slam
The conference closes with a high energy spoken word slam featuring over $2,000 in prizes, showcasing some of the region’s most dynamic voices.
Who Should Attend
• Artists and creatives
• Mental health professionals
• Peer support specialists
• Community advocates
• Students and educators
• Anyone interested in culture, healing, and community care
If you believe art can heal, stories matter, and community support saves lives, this space is for you. Mental health conversations in Black communities often happen in spaces that do not fully reflect our culture or lived experiences. Rite of Joy creates a space where healing is grounded in creativity, connection, and cultural expression.
This conference celebrates the idea that joy, art, and community are essential to wellness.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Keystone CoLAB, 800 East 18th Street, Kansas City, United States
USD 108.55
