Cayenne Wellness Center has announced its 5th Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Educational Summit, scheduled for September 15-16, 2026, at the Marriott Long Beach Downtown in Long Beach, California, with an online attendance option. This two-day event coincides with National Sickle Cell Awareness Month and the start of Hispanic Heritage Month, underscoring the importance of addressing sickle cell disease within the Hispanic and Latino communities.
The summit is designed for healthcare professionals, educators, social workers, students, and individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease, with a specific focus on the unique experiences of Hispanic and Latino populations. The program will include culturally relevant education, community voices, and advocacy, aiming to improve awareness, health equity, and access to quality care.
Key sponsors for the event include Beam Therapeutics, Inc. as a Gold sponsor, and Chiesi USA, Inc. and Global Rare Diseases as Silver sponsors. Their support is vital in bringing together sickle cell warriors, caregivers, healthcare professionals, advocates, and community leaders to share knowledge and resources.
The timing of the summit is particularly significant. September is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month, dedicated to increasing understanding of the disease and elevating the voices of those living with it. The summit begins on September 15, the opening day of Hispanic Heritage Month, creating a timely opportunity to highlight the intersection of culture, health, and sickle cell disease.
Programming will explore the relationship between country of origin, genetic background, and community-centered education, providing practical tools for warriors to advocate for themselves. A warrior-led roundtable will allow individuals living with sickle cell disease to share their perspectives directly with attendees. The program will also address the transition from pediatric to adult care, and feature breakout discussions on men's and women's health, international warriors, and providers and caregivers.
Beyond educational sessions, the summit aims to strengthen community relationships through vendor and exhibitor tables, offering opportunities for community-based organizations, healthcare providers, authors, artists, and educational institutions to share resources and connect with participants. Registration is now open for attendees, and vendor and exhibitor opportunities are available through the provided links.
Cayenne Wellness Center and Children's Foundation, a nonprofit established in 2000, is dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals with sickle cell disease in California. This summit reflects its commitment to promoting education, advocacy, and awareness, and to advancing health equity for underserved communities.
