Black History Month 2026: Celebrating 100 Years of ASALH’s Legacy

As the United States moves toward its 250th anniversary, the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) has announced a momentous theme for 2026: “A Century of Black History Commemorations.” This milestone represents 100 years since Dr. Carter G. Woodson, known as the father of this field, established “Negro History Week” in 1926.

Honoring Dr. Carter G. Woodson’s Legacy

Dr. Woodson envisioned a future where African American contributions would be recognized as a vital component of the national narrative. His founding of “Negro History Week” created the bedrock for the month-long celebration we observe today. In 2026, ASALH is calling upon educators, communities, and cultural institutions to honor this century-long tradition of preservation and promotion.

“This month belongs to us,” said ASALH National President Karsonya Wise Whitehead. “We do not celebrate because others see us—we celebrate because we see ourselves. For 100 years, the organization has stood in the House of Woodson, committed to truth-telling, historical clarity, and preserving our life, culture, and freedom struggles.”

Key Events for 2026

Virtual National Convening

The festivities will officially launch with the ASALH/Karson Institute Virtual National Convening on Sunday, February 1, 2026, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. EST. This gathering will feature leadership, scholars, and public intellectuals reflecting on the past century of remembrance. Notable participants include President Whitehead, past President Daryl Michael Scott, and renowned scholar Kimberlé Crenshaw.

Annual Luncheon

The Annual Luncheon is scheduled for Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 12:00–3:00 p.m. EST at the JW Marriott in Washington, DC. This signature gathering will mark the centennial of these celebrations. President Whitehead will deliver the address: “You Can’t Stop Black History.”

Attendees can also visit the 2026 Author’s Book Signing from 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. EST to engage with historical scholarship. Furthermore, the organization will recognize the United States Postal Service for issuing the Phillis Wheatley Black Heritage Forever Stamp, which honors the first published African American poet.

Virtual Programming on ASALH TV

Throughout February, a robust slate of virtual programs will air on ASALH TV, including:

• Justice and Reconciliation: From Henry Highland Garnet to Harvey Johnson (February 3, 6:00 p.m. EST)
• A Labor of Freedom, Then and Now (February 11, 6:00 p.m. EST)
• 2026 Book Prize Event (February 17, 7:00 p.m. EST)
• The State of African American Historical and Cultural Preservation (February 18, 6:00 p.m. EST)

These broadcasts will explore justice, labor, and heritage preservation, featuring prominent cultural leaders.

Protecting History in a Critical Moment

“At this critical historical moment—when many forces have tried to whitewash American history or eradicate it in some parts of the country—we affirm our commitment to protect, preserve, promote, and proclaim it,” said Whitehead. “We reaffirm a fundamental truth: Black history is American history.”

These efforts ensure that African American contributions remain central to the national story. For more information on events, educational resources, and daily facts, visit asalh.org.

Related Resources

For additional insights into the importance of preserving this heritage, explore this article on The Narrative Matters.

External Link Suggestion

Learn more about the Phillis Wheatley Black Heritage Forever Stamp on the USPS website.

#BlackHistoryMonth #CarterGWoodson #ASALH100