Inspired by the renowned salons (discussions) of the Harlem Renaissance, the Fertile Ground Salon gathers Black same-gender-loving (SGL) men in Washington, DC, to participate in an alternative social experience focused on intellectual dialogue and informative entertainment often led by a subject matter expert.  We explore relevant topics ranging from art, sports, and culture to relationships, politics, mental health, and spirituality.  This is a participant-driven space that challenges systemic obstacles, affirms identity and builds community.  In our salon, we seed self-advocacy, creativity, new relationships and new perspectives.   Our mission is to educate and to entertain, to create conversations that spark growth.