History in the making: Release the Silence Comes to Chicago, Springfield & Peoria in 2026

Chicago, Springfield and Peoria, IL — The Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter is making history in 2026 by hosting Release the Silence African American Conference in three Illinois cities for the first time ever—Chicago, Springfield, and Peoria.

What began in 2023 on Chicago’s South Side with a modest goal of reaching 50 people became something extraordinary, serving more than 300 individuals and families. Building on that momentum, the conference expanded to Springfield in 2024 and Peoria in 2025, ultimately reaching a combined 1,300 individuals and families across the state.

Now, the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter is taking the initiative to the next level.

Release the Silence 2026 reflects a continued commitment to empowering and supporting the Black/African American community, which is disproportionately impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. According to the Alzheimer’s Association 2025 Facts and Figures Report, African Americans are about two times more likely to develop Alzheimer’s and other dementias compared to white individuals. While the reasons for this increased burden are not yet fully understood, the need for education, support, and advocacy is clear.

These conferences are designed to help Black/African American individuals and families navigate the complexities of Alzheimer’s and dementia caregiving with culturally relevant education, trusted community voices, and practical resources.

“Release the Silence is more than a conference—it is a movement,” said Olivia Matongo, Vice President of Programs for the Alzheimer’s Association’s Illinois Chapter. “By bringing this program to three cities in one year, we are expanding access, strengthening community connections, and amplifying conversations that can no longer remain silent.”

Conference Topics Include:

• Advances in Alzheimer’s and dementia treatments

• Addressing health and financial disparities in the African American community

• Financial planning and legal considerations

• Caring for and supporting loved ones living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias

Whether you are a current caregiver, preparing to become one, or a healthcare professional serving the community, Release the Silence offers valuable insights, tools, and connections to support every stage of the caregiving journey.

2026 Conference Dates & Locations

(Peoria)

Friday, April 18, 2026 | 9:00 a.m.Life Together Center3625 N. Sheridan Rd. Peoria, IL 61604

Register: https://www.alzillinois.org/release-the-silence-peoria   

(Chicago)

Saturday, April 25, 2026UIC Forum (New Location)1213 S. Halsted St. Chicago, IL 60607 Register: www.alz.org/Release-The-Silence

(Springfield)

Saturday, May 2, 2026Union Baptist Church Springfield, IL

Register: https://tinyurl.com/4uvdffzu

Registration opens:

• Chicago: Monday, January 19, 2026

• Peoria: Monday, January 19, 2026

• Springfield: Monday, January 19, 2026

• All conferences are free to attend

• Continental breakfast and light lunch will be provided at Chicago and Springfield

• Peoria will include breakfast only

Attendees are encouraged to visit alz.org/illinois for the latest updates on agendas, speakers, and vendors as planning continues.