CHICAGO - On Saturday, August 30, Chicagoans can engage in a day of programming that will highlight the City’s innovative Healing Arts Chicago program. The events will include a citywide conversation to define what care looks like, feels like and the demands it creates—led by those living and working at the intersection of health, culture, and creativity. 

Co-hosted by the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH), the Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events (DCASE), and Malcolm X College, the 2025 Healing Arts Chicago: An Arts x Health x Wellness Summit will feature artmaking, wellness activities, workshops, panels, food, dialogue, performances, and networking with community organizations and city leaders. 

“Healing Arts Chicago reflects our belief that health goes beyond the doctor’s office. It’s about how we connect, create, and care for one another as a community,” said Dr. Olusimbo “Simbo” Ige, Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Public Health. “This summit brings together art, culture, and wellness as powerful tools to strengthen resilience and belonging across our city.” 

“Healing Arts Chicago demonstrates the powerful role the arts play in supporting mental health and wellness for our city’s residents,” said DCASE Commissioner Clinée Hedspeth. “Through the continuation of this vital program, a new cohort of professionals will have the opportunity to become certified community health workers and apprentices in City mental health centers — bringing artistic training directly into care.”

The 2025 Healing Arts Chicago Summit will run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Malcolm X College (1900 W. Jackson Blvd.), with doors opening at 9:30 a.m. Attendees can go to more than a dozen presentations, performances, and breakout workshops throughout the day. 

The program also includes movement workshops, arts activities, and free breakfast and lunch. Summit attendees are encouraged to register in advance through Eventbrite.

More information, including a detailed schedule and presenter biographies, is available at Chicago.gov/HealingArts.

CDPH Public Information Office: media.cdph@cityofchicago.org

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