The next Michigan Black Summit will be held in Benton Harbor this coming February.

Neighbors Organizing Against Racism Director Trenton Bowens tells us last year’s summit was a resounding success with more than 600 people from all over the state in attendance and guest speakers including Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson.

The next summit, the third to be held, will be February 7 and 8 at the Mendel Center. Bowens says there will be several pillars of discussion.

“Some of those pillars that we’ll be discussing is environmental justice, the power of the vote, the black dollar, women in leadership,” Bowens said. “We’re going to be having panels with the black superintendents across the state of Michigan.”

Bowens says they’ll have business leaders from across the state, and one high-profile guest that he can’t announce yet.

“I’m currently under a gag order, but you’re going to be shocked. It’s going to blow your mind, and we are excited. I’m not at liberty to discuss that until their office releases it.”

There will also a Black Summit Gala with live music from Midnight Star, the legendary R&B band behind hits like No Parking (On the Dance Floor) and Freak-A-Zoid.

While the 2025 summit will remain in Southwest Michigan, Bowens says there are plans to take the event on the road in subsequent years.

Tickets to the 2025 gala and registration for the summit will go on sale later this month. You can learn more at the Facebook page of Neighbors Organizing Against Racism.