CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION OF BLACK HISTORY MONTH

100 Years of National Observances

February 1926 – February 2026

DOES THE 250th ANNIVERSITY OF THE U.S. WELCOME THIS CELEBRATION?

Black History Month was originally established as Negro History Week by Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1926.  Fifty years later (1976) during America’s Bicentennial Anniversary, Black History Week evolved into a month-long celebration recognizing the achievements and contributions of Black Americans.

Unlike the Bicentennial Anniversary of 1976 - the Hundred-Year Celebration of Black History Month is surrounded by the current national climate surrounding the 250th Anniversary.  Sadly, this political climate discourages and penalizes any connections to DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion).  But, in spite of anti-DEI, anti-WOKE, massive book banning of Black history, art, and literature, many churches and organizations continue to celebrate Black History Month.

So, why do we continue to celebrate Black History in America? Black History Month honors, the often overlooked, achievements and contributions of Black Americans. The central role of Black Americans in U.S. history and culture is a major component in American history. Sadly, without Black History Month, this history threatens to become erased from the pages of the 250-year experience of America and the hope for America to remain the world’s beacon of democracy.