Step Afrika performs. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)
More than 300 people gathered at Sycamore & Oak in Southeast D.C., for the 2026 Health Equity Summit on April 30, hosted by the Greater Washington Community Foundation (GWCF).
A free initiative focused on promoting health equity and economic justice in the United States, the day-long event brought together influential leaders and advocates to foster meaningful dialogue and actionable change, under the theme, “We Can Do This: Crafting the Future We Deserve.”
Featuring panels, conversations, networking and performances from poet Camilo Montoya and the award-winning group StepAfrika, the summit worked to combat disparities affecting Black Americans and promote equitable access to health and economic opportunities.
“We believe that by improving the economic stability, mobility, and prosperity of our neighbors and communities facing the deepest disparities, we will ultimately improve the quality of life for everyone who lives, works, and raises a family in this region,” said Tonia Wellons, GWCF president and CEO, in a February message posted on the foundation’s website.
The summit included breakfast, lunch, and bites through the “Network and Chill” session. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)Kate Daniel, Bridget Hanagan, Darin Allen, Dawn Leary and Leslie Jefferson of the Greater Washington Community Foundation (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)An attendee participates in a question-and-answer session. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)Panelists Dr. Darrick Hailton (left) and Dr. Andre Perry (right) participate in the “Barbershop Economics” panel, moderated by Ronnie Galvin (center), focusing on building community wealth. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)Attendees enjoy the 2026 Health Equity Summit. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)Attendees enjoy the 2026 Health Equity Summit. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)Tonia Wellons, president and CEO of the Greater Washington Community Foundation (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)Step Afrika performs. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)Step Afrika performs. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)Dr. Marla Dean, senior director of the Greater Washington Community Foundation Health Equity Fund (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)
