ADRSA 2023: Crafted from Clay

Join the African and Diasporic Religious Studies Association (ADRSA) in Charlotte, NC or ONLINE via LIVE STREAM for its 11th conference! Come for the conference and stay for a weekend of fellowship and fun! Presented in Association with the UNC Charlotte Africana Studies Department. Co-Sponsored by Black Faith + HIV, KOSANBA, the International African American Museum, WaWaWa Diaspora Centre, Harmony Health, LLC, and Ase Ire.

This year's theme Crafted from Clay: The Body, (Dis)Ability, and Wellness in Africana Religions will center the body, examining how African and Diasporic religions conceive of the body-spirit connection, and the concepts of ability, disability, and wellness often applied to the body. Featuring paper presentations, panel discussions, vendors, and more!

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CONFERENCE HOTEL

Drury Inn & Suites University Place -- Book a Room

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PRE-CONFERENCE EVENT

Thursday, April 20: UNC Africana Studies Department 21st Annual Conference on Race, Religion, and Health

This symposium explores the relationship between race/racism, religion, and health with focus on people of African descent and/or the religious traditions of Africa and the African diaspora, including African ancestral religions, Islam, Christianity, and Afro-Diasporic religions.

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ADRSA CONFERENCE AND MARKETPLACE (MAIN EVENT)

Friday, April 21: UNC Charlotte - McEniry 124 (Interactive Campus Map

Opening Plenary

Dr. Yolanda Covington-Ward

Professor and Chair of Afro-American Studies, Universeity of Massachusetts, Amherst

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Keynote Address

Awise Dr. Wande Abimbola

President, Ifa Heritage Institute

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Featured Artist

Nneka Gigi

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AFTERPARTY

Friday, April 21: Venue to be Announced

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FAQs

Is this an in-person or online event?

This is an in-person event which will also be streamed online. In-person tickets also include live stream access.

How does the live stream work?

You'll receive a link when the conference begins. Simply click and you're there. Recordings will be available if you miss it live.

Do I have to be a student, professor, or otherwise affiliated with a university to come? 

No! All are welcome and community members are welcomed and encouraged to attend!

What is the attire?

We encourage attendees to wear white in the spirit of peace and connection. Accent it with your favorite prints!

Will food be provided?

Light breakfast and lunch are included with paid registration. Complimentary student tickets do not include meals or conference swag.

Can I pay at the door?

As space is limited, only those who have pre-registered are guaranteed entry. Limited door payments may be accepted if space allows. Please contact us if you have any trouble.

How much does it cost to be a vendor?

Vendors must purchase vendor registration ($125) and donate an item ($15 value or greater) to the annual raffle. 

What's the refund policy?

Donations are non-refundable. Registration may be refunded less $10 admin fee before April 15. No refunds after April 15.