Black History Month 2026
“A Century of Black History Commemorations.”
Now in its fourth year, Black History Month Columbus celebrates Black culture, shares the true stories of Black history, and honors the legacy and achievements of the Black community. This year, our focus aligns with the national theme, “A Century of Black History Commemorations.” (Link to the national theme one-pager)
BHMC 2026 Highlights
Why This Theme Matters
This year marks a significant milestone: 100 years since Dr. Carter G. Woodson established Negro History Week in 1926, launching what would become a transformative cultural movement. For a full century, these commemorations have done more than preserve stories—they've shaped how we see ourselves, each other, and our shared history. This year's national theme, "A Century of Black History Commemorations," invites us to reflect on this legacy and its impact on our communities.
100 Years of Celebration – From a week-long observance in 1926 to a nationally recognized month in 1976, Black History Month has become woven into American culture.
Reaching Every Community – Black History Month now touches schools, museums, workplaces, houses of worship, and homes nationwide.
Reclaiming Our Stories – Dr. Carter G. Woodson and ASALH founders knew that telling our own history was essential to shaping our future.
More Important Than Ever – As book bans and legislative efforts attempt to erase Black history from education, these commemorations remind us why accurate, inclusive history matters.
We invite neighbors from all walks of life to join in learning, reflecting, and celebrating. Together, we can continue telling the stories that shape our shared history and build momentum for community healing through inspiring and educational experiences.
From Then to Now: 100 Years Celebrating Black History
100th Anniversary Limited-Edition Magazine
In celebration of the 100th anniversary of Black History Month in the United States, a 100th Anniversary Limited-Edition Magazine was created to honor this historic milestone. The vision behind the publication was to develop a meaningful and engaging resource that highlights Black history while uplifting the voices, stories, and celebrations within the community. Serving as both a reflection and a guide, the magazine invites readers to learn, reflect, and celebrate through historical features, local spotlights, and coverage of Black History Month events. It also builds on previous years by capturing how communities continue to recognize, uplift, and honor Black history today.
Thank You!
What an absolutely incredible month — and none of it would have been possible without YOU!
I am bursting with gratitude and so much love for every single one of you who came out and supported our events this month. Whether you attended, cheered us on, or simply spread the word, you made a difference, and it SHOWS!
This year has been nothing short of phenomenal! We laughed, we connected, we grew, and we celebrated together — and that is something truly worth shouting about! This community has shown up in the most beautiful ways, and I could not be more proud of what we have accomplished together.
To everyone who attended: THANK YOU! Your presence, your energy, and your beautiful smiles are what make these moments so special and so memorable. You are the heartbeat of everything we do!
Here's to an amazing community, an incredible year, and so much more to come! Let's keep celebrating — because together, there is nothing we cannot do!
With so much love, gratitude, and excitement,
Whittney Wood-Gaines
View Previous Years
Presenting Sponsors of BHMC 2026
Community Event Partner Organizations
African Alliance for Pastors Alliance (AAPA)
African American Foundation (AAF)
Bartholomew County Public Library (BCPL)
City of Columbus-Human Rights Commission
Columbus Enrichment Program (CEP) Columbus Propellor
Community Education Coalition (CEC)-Umoja
First Presbyterian Church
Indiana University Columbus
Ivy Tech Community College
Landmark Columbus
NAACP Columbus/Bartholomew
Nexus Park
Paths To Success (PTS)
Prisoner Moms of Faith
Stunna’s Meal Prep
Bespoke Events + Experiences
Turning Point
United Way Bartholomew County
Join us in celebrating Black History all year long!
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