Friday, August 1, 2025, through Saturday, August 2, 2025 at GRPS University Campus, 1400 Fuller St NE, GR 49505. 

The Black Impact Collaborative is proud to again host “The Black Experience” which will focus on spreading “Black Joy” and the illumination of information across the Health & Well-Being, Education, Economic Security, Communication, and Elder Support impact areas that will ultimately elevate the experience of Black people in Greater Grand Rapids, MI. Some of the features of The Black Experience include a business expo and exhibits, local and national plenary, workshop speakers, an all-Black Attire Party, live entertainment, food and much more!

The Black Experience will kick-off with an all-Black Attire Party at GRPS University Campus, 1400 Fuller St NE, GR 49505.  on Friday, August 1 from 7:00-10:30PM. It will feature the live band For Your Soul Entertainment, Host Comedian Gregory Morris, food and drinks, best dress contest, prizes & more! On Saturday August 2 you can expect to attend workshops with National and Local Speakers such as Maggie Anderson, JD., Author of Our Black Year, hear from local Black-led organizations, Gubernatorial Candidates running for Michigan office, Kids’ Corner Activities, Premier Vendor Expo, Music, Food & more.

“Our primary goal of the Black Experience is to cultivate community healing in the black community by promoting intellectual, cultural, and thoughtful leadership and innovation in the areas of education, economics, health and well-being, serving our elders, and ensuring protection,” says Board Chair, Dallas Lenear. We can let you know that this will be a Family-friendly weekend for not only for Black Greater Grand Rapids, but for everyone. However, we know that it is essential that we elevate Black Joy – things that inspire, supports and uplifts Black Culture. This is an event that will do that.

Be sure to come out for this family-friendly event that will be educational, empowering, engaging, entertaining, and exciting! For additional details you can view our event site at https://bicgr.com/the-black-experience/. You can also follow the Black Impact Collaborative Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/the411gr) to stay up to date! If you have any questions about the event you can call 616-888-8411, or email info@bicgr.com.