Welcome to Black History Month Columbus 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.”

  • 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.

Community Calendar

Download 2026 Calendar (PDF)

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

2023
2024
2025

Download BHMC 2026 Calendar as PDF

(Recommended for Print)

Presenting Sponsors of BHMC 2026

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 Event Partner Organizations

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