Why San Antonio? A Message About Our 2026 Annual Meeting and Expo Location

We understand that holding the APHA Annual Meeting and Expo in Texas this year raises concerns for many in our community, given the state’s current political climate and recent policy decisions that conflict with our organization’s values and mission. 

San Antonio is a diverse, vibrant, and proudly progressive city with a long history of activism, advocacy and community-based public health work. By showing up, we have the opportunity to support local communities doing critical work and make our voices heard in Texas, a state that could benefit greatly from a public health approach. 

And in full transparency, our contract with the city of San Antonio was signed almost a decade ago, long before the political landscape evolved into what it is today. Canceling or relocating APHA 2026 would have significant financial and logistical consequences—not just for APHA, but for our members, exhibitors and partners who look forward to and rely upon this gathering. 

Our presence matters. Being in San Antonio allows us to: 

• Support local advocates and organizations aligned with our mission
• Elevate voices in a state that hasn’t hosted the APHA Annual Meeting in decades
• Welcome public health professionals to a new city 
• Demonstrate that our values don't stop at state lines

We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive and empowering experience for all who attend—and to ensuring our time in San Antonio reflects not just where we are, but who we are. 

We hope you will join us in building a powerful, values-driven presence in 2026.