Black History Month 2026
Events Coming Soon!
All events will be available on MLK Day, January 19th.
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)
2026 Black History Month National Theme:
“A Century of Black History Commemorations.”
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.
Special note to our Community Organizations:
Welcome to all!
Our kickoff call took place in early November. To participate in upcoming calls, please contact Whittney Wood-Gaines.
Email: whittney.wood@gmail.com
Phone: (317) 903-1685
Get more information about the theme, important timelines, meeting dates, and early planning process details here.
“Standing arm-in-arm with our neighbors to live out what we believe — that Black history is American history, that we are stronger together, and that love is our greatest guiding force — means everything to us. And none of this happens without you. Your support, your presence, and your willingness to cry, laugh, eat, dance, and learn with us is what makes this possible. We celebrate Black History "with" you, and we look forward to continuing this journey together.”
— Whittney Wood-Gaines
View Previous Years
African Alliance for Pastors Alliance (AAPA)
African American Foundation (AAF)
Bartholomew Co. Sheriff’s Department
Bartholomew County Historical Society
Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation (BCSC)
Bartholomew County Public Library (BCPL)
Beloved
City of Columbus
City of Columbus-Human Rights Commission
Columbus Enrichment Program (CEP)
Community Event Partner Organizations
Columbus Propellor
Columbus Regional Health (CRH)
Columbus Young Professionals of Color
Community Education Coalition (CEC)-Umoja
First Presbyterian Church
Foundation For Youth (FFY)
Indiana University Columbus
Ivy Tech Community College
Landmark Columbus
NAACP Columbus/Bartholomew
Nexus Park
Paths To Success (PTS)
Prisoner Moms of Faith
Stunna Meal Prep
Swine & Dine
Turning Point
United Way Bartholomew County
YES Cinema
Join us in celebrating Black History all year long!
Sign up to be the first to know about our upcoming events throughout the year.