The AHA Accelerating Health Equity Conference in Kansas City, Mo brought together over 1,000 leaders from hospitals, health systems, and community and public health organizations. Spanning a full day, the conference featured breakout sessions, table conversations, networking opportunities and community immersion experiences that provided valuable insights and strategies for advancing health equity in communities.

On Day 2 of the conference, attendees participated in breakout sessions that focused on transforming maternal health care for Black women, addressing food insecurity through hospital-based programs that prioritize community collaboration and driving change through the Rise to Health Coalition. These sessions were informative and offered attendees valuable strategies for advancing health equity in their communities.

In addition to the informative breakout sessions, attendees had the opportunity to participate in community immersion experiences. These experiences took participants to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum, Operation Breakthrough and local nonprofits Uzazi Village and BlaqOut. These experiences allowed attendees to see firsthand the impact of health disparities and the importance of community collaboration in addressing them.

One of the highlights of the conference was a performance by Pillsbury House Theatre from Minneapolis titled “Breaking Ice.” The performance delved into diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace sparking meaningful conversations among attendees. Overall, the conference provided a platform for leaders to come together share knowledge and experiences work towards advancing health equity in their communities.