The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) is excited to bring the 111th Annual Conference & Exhibits to Norfolk, Virginia,  a central city within the Hampton Roads metropolitan area in southeastern Virginia, located at the confluence of the Elizabeth River and Chesapeake Bay.  Our 2026 theme is "A Century of Black History Commemorations" and our ASALH members and supporters will converge in Norfolk, a city that is rich in the African American culture and history, waterfronts, education much more.

The ASALH Annual Conference is an occasion to explore the history and culture of people of African descent. Our conference brings together more than one thousand people, including educators, students, community builders, business professionals, and others who share an abiding interest in learning about the contribution of African Americans to this nation and the world.

For over a century, our conference has featured a rich program, which now includes scholarly sessions, professional workshops, exhibits, plenary sessions, a Film Festival, and other presentations that analyze and illuminate a critical theme in the Black experience.

Our 2026 in-person conference will offer attendees sessions featuring ASALH members who are prominent figures in Black cultural studies, as well as students from many disciplines. Sessions will be on the theme and many aspects of Black life, history, and culture.

ASALH is committed to creating an environment of respect and ALL participants are held to the ASALH Anti-Harassment Policy and Member Code of Conduct.

ASALH Anti-Harassment Policy – ASALH – The Founders of Black History Month

Member Code of Conduct – ASALH – The Founders of Black History Month

Notice of Film and Photography - ASALH - The Founders of Black History Month

Note: If you joined ASALH in the last 24 hours, please allow 12-24 hours to access the Conference Registration portal. Thank you!

CURRENT MEMBERS

Members who hold 2026 membership and Life members will register using the email sent to you with a unique registration link. If you are not sure you are a member, you can contact the office at 202.238.5912 or membership@asalh.org.

NON-MEMBERS

You do not need to be an ASALH member to attend the conference. Non-members can register at the non-member rate.

This applies to individuals who would like to join ASALH or renew their expired membership when registering for the conference.
This option is available for General, Senior, Student and Associate Members.
Dual, Life Interim, Life, and International Members must contact the office at 202.238.5912 or membership@asalh.org.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

COUNTDOWN TO THE EVENT