Recognizing Black Leaders and Creatives at SXSW

This Black History Month we're taking a look back at conversations with some of the most preeminent Black leaders and creatives across music, film, tech, government, and beyond that we've been fortunate to host at SXSW over the years.

We've put together a few playlists featuring SXSW Conference sessions with these leaders – from President Barack Obama's Keynote address in 2016 to award-winning filmmaker Ava DuVernay's Film Keynote in 2015 and more.

Government, Technology & Business Playlist

Explore sessions featuring distinguished Black leaders in politics, technology, and business including Barack Obama, Stacey Abrams, Ta-Nehsi Coates, and more.

Film Playlist

Learn from the experiences and expertise of renowned Black filmmakers and actors including Barry Jenkins, Ava DuVernay, Kerry Washington, and more.

Music Playlist

Take a look back at some of the legendary Black artists and producers that have taken the stage at SXSW including Nile Rodgers, Kelly Rowland, Young Guru and more.

See You At SXSW 2022

Join us for SXSW 2022 to celebrate the convergence of the tech, film, and music industries across a variety of programming formats and special events from March 11-20 in Austin, TX and online.

Attendees will receive primary entry to programming associated with their badge type, in addition to enjoying secondary access to most other SXSW events. Plus, all badgeholders receive access to SXSW Online, our digital event component which includes live streamed content from Conference sessions to the iconic film and music festivals as well as unique networking opportunities – and of course, much more.

Register Now

Recognizing that the Covid-19 landscape is changing rapidly, SXSW has updated its Covid-19 guidelines here.

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SXSW Keynote Ava DuVernay speaks onstage - SXSW 2015. Photo by Heather Kennedy/Getty Images for SXSW