Pocket Con
Pocket Con is a free, one-day convention in Chicago that celebrates characters and creators of color, with a special focus on African American authors and artists. The event, hosted in partnership with the Chicago Public Library and Stomping Grounds Literary Arts Initiative (LAI), highlights diverse voices across the comic and creative industries.
In addition to celebrating African American creators, Pocket Con showcases work by other underrepresented groups, including women, Latinx, and LGBTQ artists. The convention also emphasizes the importance of indie comics and small press, welcoming self-published authors and creators working in related fields such as webcomics, animation, indie filmmaking, video game design, and zines.
To learn more, visit PocketCon.org.
Pocket Con has grown to become a hub for young creatives and a platform for community engagement. Over the years, it has hosted activities such as panel discussions, art contests, hands-on workshops, and live performances, making it a dynamic space for learning and collaboration. Notable past events include youth-centered competitions and appearances by prominent indie creators who inspire the next generation.































