San Diego -- The second annual Afro Con promises to galvanize untapped creativity, elevate critical Afrofuturist thinking, and spark collaborative enterprise. AfroCon 2022 takes place Sept. 3-5 at the Jackie Robinson YMCA (151 YMCA Way, San Diego), with general admission free to the public.

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Afro Con, short for Afrofuturism Consciousness Convention, is the brainchild of LaWana Richmond, EdD, aka Dr. LaWana, who also helped launch the Afrofuturism Lounge five years ago as a Comic-Con after party. Now an annual standalone gathering that coincides with the iconic San Diego convention, the Lounge event continues to connect the Black comix community and Afrofuturists across multiple genres.

“This year’s Afrofuturism Lounge illuminated the growing interest in what Afro Con offers; Afrofuturists are mobilized by their history and uninhibited in their imagination,” Dr. LaWana said. “Set in Southeastern San Diego at the recently remodeled Jackie Robinson Y, Afro Con 2022 is a reminder that the city has nurtured many Black visionaries including, Makeda Cheatom, the late Willie Morrow, RuPaul, even Whoopie Goldberg,” she added.

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Afro Con 2022 is the first post-pandemic platform focused solely on highlighting the diverse talents of emerging Afrofuturists. The event will feature speakers and expert panelists on launching businesses and investing in artistic ventures.

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Afro Con 2022 features keynote speaker community artist Maxx Moses, GTET Media developer Winston Shaw, musical artist Kahlil Nash, and concept artist, illustrator and music producer Tony Washington.

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“Afro Con 2022 advances the alliance of Black comix, scientists, filmmakers, techies, intellectuals and artists,” Dr. LaWana said.

Afro Con 2022 is sponsored by AfroCon.net, The Conservancy Corp, Firyali Visions and EDFU Foundation. Learn more about Afro Con 2022 and register at www.AfroCon.net.