Bruce D. Nesbitt African American Cultural Center

The Association for the Study of African American Life and History brings us the 2026 National Black History Month theme, "Century of Black History Commemorations” marks 100 years of national observances dedicated to honoring the lives, struggles, and achievements of African Americans. This milestone invites us to reflect on the origins and enduring significance of these commemorations, which began with Dr. Carter G. Woodson and his colleagues’ founding of the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH) in 1915. Their vision institutionalized the study and celebration of Black history, laying the foundation for what would become Negro History Week in 1926 and, eventually, Black History Month. This year’s theme encourages us to explore the profound impact of these commemorations on shaping identity, fostering pride, and advancing equality. From early celebrations of emancipation and the Haitian Revolution to modern observances like Juneteenth, Black history has served as a beacon of resilience and hope. As Arthur A. Schomburg declared, “The American Negro must remake his past in order to make his future.” That call remains urgent today, as forces seek to erase or diminish Black history through censorship and exclusion. Understanding the role of Black History Month in the modern world especially as we also mark the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence requires telling not only an inclusive history but an accurate one. These commemorations are not mere traditions; they are vital acts of resistance and affirmation. They remind us that Black history’s value lies not only in its contribution to national narratives but in its enduring resonance in the lives of Black people everywhere.