Black History Month was created to focus attention on the rich legacy of the black experience in in the United States. Black leaders have shaped our nation with courage and determination. They have played defining roles in pivotal moments throughout our history. Their leadership has also advanced the pursuit of a more socially just future. Although our country has made meaningful progress, challenges remain. The work ahead begins with education and understanding.
2026 marks a century of national commemorations of Black history. The 2026 BHM theme is A Century of Black History Commemorations. Learn more about the 2026 theme here.Black History Month (BHM) got its start in 1926 when Dr. Carter G. Woodson, an African American, promoted Negro History Week in February. The time was selected because it included the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. These are notable dates for the Black community since the start of the twentieth century. Dr. Woodson decided to form an organization to promote the scientific study of black life and history. In 1915 he met with several colleagues and formed the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH). In 1973, the organization was renamed the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). Also known as African American History Month, it was first observed by students and faculty at Kent State University in 1970. In 1976 it evolved into a month-long celebration and became a national holiday when President Gerald Ford recognized “the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history” in a speech to mark the United States Bicentennial. In 1986, Congress passed Public Law 99-244, which legally designated February as “National Black (Afro-American) History Month.
ASALH recommends several ways to celebrate BHM. Learn about Black history by exploring your local community, reading books or stories by Black authors. ASALH has created an author’s bookshelf. Watch films and documentaries by talented Black filmmakers—explore powerful stories that honor the diverse experiences, cultures, and histories of the Black community. ASALH has a YouTube channel featuring educational programming, discussions, and content dedicated to preserving, promoting, and celebrating Black history, culture, and legacy. Visit African American museums, including the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., or other African American or Black museums across the United States.
More countries are recognizing Black history, and these recognitions are held at different times throughout the year. In Canada official recognition began in 1995, highlighting Black Canadian history and contributions. In the United Kingdom it was initiated in 1987. They focus on the contributions of African and Caribbean people to British society. In 1990, Germany became the second European country to officially recognize Black History Month, followed by Ireland in 2010. In France, BHM was first organized in 2018. Latin American countries observe unique commemorations, including Afro-Colombian Day (May 21), Afro-Venezuelan Day (May 10), and Panama’s Black Ethnicity Day (May 30). In 2020, BHM was celebrated in seven African countries (Benin, Burkina Faso, Chad, Ivory Coast, Comores, Senegal and Cameroon) for the first time.
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