Each February, the United States celebrates Black History Month, a time dedicated to honoring the achievements, resilience, and contributions of African Americans. The 2026 theme, “A Century of Black History Commemorations,” reflects on the hundred-year journey of recognizing and preserving Black history in American culture and education.
The story began in 1926 when historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History established Negro History Week. Woodson believed that understanding Black history was essential to understanding American history as a whole. He chose the second week of February to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, two figures closely associated with the struggle for freedom and equality.
Over the decades, Negro History Week grew in influence as schools, communities, and organizations began recognizing the importance of African American history. During the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s, the call for broader recognition intensified. In 1976, during the United States Bicentennial, the observance officially expanded into Black History Month, gaining national recognition and encouraging deeper exploration of African American experiences.
“A Century of Black History Commemorations” highlights how the study and celebration of Black history have evolved. Going from a single week of awareness to a nationwide commitment to education, remembrance, and cultural appreciation. It also honors the generations of scholars, educators, activists, and community leaders who worked tirelessly to ensure that Black stories are told and preserved.
Today, Black History Month serves not only as a celebration of achievements but also as a reminder of ongoing struggles for justice and equality. By reflecting on a century of commemorations, we recognize the power of history to inspire future generations and strengthen a more inclusive understanding of the American story.