February 2026 marks 100 years of national observances dedicated to honoring the lives, struggles, and achievements of African Americans, a celebration initiated by Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1926. Accordingly, the 2026 Black History Month theme is “A Century of Black History Commemorations,” honoring this 100th anniversary of observance.
This month-long observance is a recognition of the vast contributions of African Americans to American civilization. It is also a painful reminder that systemic racism still persists. In our commemoration and observation, we should give visibility to the people and organizations challenging systems that continue to perpetuate racism.
Understanding the role Black History Month plays—particularly as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence—requires telling an inclusive and complete history. These commemorations are both acts of affirmation and of resistance. Black history is American history.