100th Anniversary of Black History Month

The theme of this year’s Black History Month is
A CENTURY OF BLACK HISTORY COMMEMORATIONS.

2026 marks a century of national commemorations of Black history. Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson,
George Cleveland Hall, William B. Hartgrove, Jesse E. Moorland, Alexander L. Jackson, and James E. Stamps 
institutionalized the teaching, study, dissemination, and commemoration of Black history when they founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH) on September 9, 1915.

In 1925, when Dr. Carter G. Woodson planned the inaugural week-long observance of Black history,
he could hardly have anticipated the imprint he would leave on the world. From Negro History Week
to Black History Month, ASALH has carried forth the tradition, and the observances have become
part of the warp and weft of American culture and increasingly the global community. For our 100th theme,
the founders of Black History Month urge us to explore the impact and meaning of Black history
and life commemorations in transforming the status of Black peoples in the modern world.

• It's Black History Month and there's a good reason why we celebrate it in February
• In Honor of Black History Month, 30 Black History Facts You May Not Be Aware Of
• Quiz: How well do you know U.S. Black historical figures?
• Is Slavery Still Legal in the U.S.? Yes, Under the 13th Amendment Exception | Teen Vogue
• 9 inspiring Black American heroes you might not know about, but should
• 95 Powerful Malcolm X Quotes On Justice, Education, Truth, And The Future
• Black Women in History
• Virtually visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture which captures and shares the unvarnished truth of African American history and culture. We connect stories, scholarship, art, and artifacts from the past and present to illuminate the contributions, struggles, and triumphs that have shaped our nation.
• Journey of Black History Month

How to learn and celebrate Black history
There are various ways to celebrate the month and educate yourself on Black history. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:

Support Black-owned businesses and artists
Many top shopping sites like Amazon, Yelp and Door Dash allow you to filter for Black-owned businesses and restaurants. Try it out next time you place an online order.

Find online celebrations
The Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture is providing free online programming this month. You can view the full calendar here.

Attend local events
Check your city and state government websites for Black History Month events like art and music workshops, film screenings, and more.

Watch a movie
Watch one of these 28 films to learn more about the Black experience. Most are available on Netflix, Amazon Prime, or other popular streaming services. More options include researching Black history in your community and reading Black literature.