The New Year is here — and BTAC is stepping into something historic.
In 2026, we will be celebrating 15 years of service to the Black Trans community, while also celebrating our 13th Annual National Black Trans Advocacy Conference & Awards Gala (BTAC26).
✨ After over a decade — and for the first time ever — the National Black Trans Advocacy Conference & Awards Gala will be moving away from Texas!
We’ve looked high and low — inside and outside of Texas — for a place that reflects who we are and where we’re going. We wanted more than just a space to hold an event. We wanted a partner who truly welcomes us, who values our presence, and who wants our business. A place where we can gather, connect, and just be.
After much care, thought, and prayer, we’ve found that place.
In 2026, we are bringing BTAC to the heart of the culture, the rhythm, and the resilience:
⚜️ BTAC26 is headed to New Orleans, Louisiana!
We are thrilled to announce that our 13th National Black Trans Advocacy Conference & Awards Gala will be held in New Orleans, Louisiana, April 21–26, 2026. Our vibe for the week and throughout the year is “Rooted Liberation: The Big Easy Journey to Peace Within & Freedom Together!”
We’ll be partnering with the:
Crowne Plaza New Orleans French Quarter – Astor, located right in downtown New Orleans at the corner of Canal and Bourbon Street.
The French Quarter brings a lively, adult-centered atmosphere full of culture, music, and celebration. It’s a different setting from our past programs — but one that truly invites us to celebrate, connect, and simply be ourselves.
We couldn’t think of a more powerful place to begin this next chapter. New Orleans holds a spirit of celebration, rebirth, and community — and it feels like the perfect home for what BTAC is becoming.
We are excited to make New Orleans our home for the week and to collaborate with state and local advocates and organizations focused on Black Trans equality. We believe this move is more than a location change — it’s a deeper commitment to expanding relationships, strengthening movement partnerships, and building long-term liberation work for our community in Louisiana, collectively with our national community.
Hotel Rates: BTAC conference registrants will have access to a discounted conference hotel rate, booked with us based on availability
Lastly, we have just a few important details to share with you as we begin our Big Easy Journey together! Here are five exciting updates for you today:
Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler — (let the good times roll)⚜️✨
1. What to expect at BTAC26?
BTAC26 is designed to be more than a conference — it’s a week of connection, purpose, and celebration.
The National Black Trans Advocacy Conference & Awards Gala is more than an event — it’s a homecoming. A sacred gathering where Black trans people and our loved ones come together to learn, heal, and celebrate in community.
Over five transformative days, we move in the spirit of wellness, connection, and leadership — sharing stories, building power, and uplifting one another in spaces rooted in joy, authenticity, and freedom. From powerful workshops to soulful celebrations, every moment is designed to nourish the mind, body, and soul.
#BTAC2026 marks a major milestone in Black Trans History — 15 years of service and our 13th National Black Trans Advocacy Conference & Awards Gala — April 21–26, 2026!
FEATURED EVENTS
Tuesday: Welcome Brunch | Opening Interfaith Ceremony
Wednesday: TransManifest Live
Thursday: Black Trans International Pageants
Friday: Black Trans Advocacy Awards Gala
Saturday: Family & Fun Day | Black Diamond Ball
Sunday: Closing Ceremony & Farewell Brunch
Get ready for an unforgettable week of growth, healing, and celebration
2. BTAC26 Theme + Color
Every year, BTAC selects a theme that honors what we’ve overcome and what we are becoming.
Theme:
“Rooted Liberation: The Big Easy Journey to Peace Within & Freedom Together”
Theme Color:
Crimson Red (a deep red symbolizing renewal, strength, and transformation) and accent color Citrine (a warm yellow symbolizing abundance, joy, and creativity)
As we step into BTAC26, we do so with deep gratitude and pride — because BTAC is celebrating 15 years of service, and BTAC26 marks the celebration of our 13th Annual Conference & Awards Gala.
This conference isn’t just a gathering — it’s a celebration of legacy, healing, joy, and what we continue to build together.
3. BTAC26 Scholarship Fundraiser & Sponsorship Opportunities
The BTAC Scholarship Fundraiser is our community-powered effort to help remove financial barriers to attending BTAC26.
This fundraiser provides an opportunity to mobilize support through tax-deductible contributions toward:
✅ hotel stays
✅ registration fees
✅ equitable access for Black trans people nationwide
Fundraising Options:
- $325 Full Conference Registration
- $900 Single Hotel Room
- $450 Hotel Room Share
Fundraiser Minimum: $325
$25 deposit due at sign-up
Conference participants (to cover their own costs) and allies are welcome to participate and help fund more people.
Scholarship Sponsorship Benefits
Conference scholarship sponsors may either make a pledge or participate in the fund to fundraise toward their pledge amount.
Sponsorship benefits are available at:
- $2,500+ (Awareness Level)
- $5,000 (Advocacy Level)
✅ Click here to get more information and get started today:
https://secure.qgiv.com/event/btac26-scholarship-fundraiser/register/form/classification?
Deadline to register to participate: January 15, 2026
4. Registration, Applications & More Coming Soon
We will be releasing official launch details soon for:
- Conference sponsorship, vendor, and advertiser opportunities
- Conference registration & event online ticket purchase start date
- Host Committee Scholarship applications
- Volunteer Registration Sign-up & Opportunities
- Workshop proposal submissions
5. Exciting Opportunity: Event Coordinator Needed
We are currently seeking an Event Coordinator to professionally support BTAC26 through a 5-month contract (January–May). This role will report directly to our Event Team Supervisor, Kamron Davis.
✅ Interested (or know someone who would be a great fit)?
Click here for details and to apply:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1OjhdtyKiEey9kPfKmq99f98WNUWDXjVV/
Thank you for being connected to BTAC and for being part of our journey. We can’t wait to celebrate this new chapter with you — and we truly hope to see you in New Orleans.
With gratitude,
Carter & Esperanza Brown
Black Trans Advocacy Coalition Founders
