06/05/2026
For the first time ever, the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter brought Release the Silence, an Alzheimer’s Association African American community conference, to key markets across Illinois — Chicago, Peoria, and Springfield. These events expanded critical awareness, education and support for Black/African-American families impacted by Alzheimer’s and dementia, as well as brain health information and ways to reduce risk.
This milestone was about more than hosting events. It was about increasing access, building trust, and ensuring communities are seen, heard and supported. Together, nearly 800 participants joined us across all three cities to engage in powerful conversations, connect with resources, and help break the silence surrounding Alzheimer’s and dementia.
As one attendee shared, “Stigma is powerful, but so is hope.”
Thank you to every committee member, attendee, speaker, partner and volunteer who made this statewide impact possible. The conversation continues, and so does the work.
