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February is Black History Month, an annual celebration of African Americans’ achievements and a recognition of their roles in U.S. history. This month is a great time to educate yourself and your family on these achievements and discover ways you can celebrate. 

The origins of Black History Month

A half-century after the ratification of the 13th Amendment abolishing slavery, Harvard-trained historian Carter G. Woodson and Jesse E. Moorland, a prominent minister at the time, founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History in 1915. The group, now known as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH), first celebrated “Negro History Week” in February 1926 to coincide with President Abraham Lincoln’s and Frederick Douglass’ birthdays. Though celebrated in many cities and college campuses throughout February, it wasn’t until 1976 that President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month. 

Black History Month, as President Ford said then, is a chance to: “seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” 

Black History Month 2026: “A Century of Black History Commemorations”  

The 2026 theme, “A Century of Black History Commemorations” will reflect on 100 years of Black history celebrations. The origins of Black History Month started with the inaugural observance of Black history in 1926. In 2026, the founders of Black History Month would like people to “explore the impact and meaning of Black history and life commemorations in transforming the status of Black peoples in the modern world. This milestone celebration also coincides with the 250th anniversary of our country’s independence. Learn more about this year’s theme on the ASALH website.  

How can I celebrate Black History Month in Indiana? 

Though education and celebration of Black American achievements and history happen all year, February gives you a unique chance to celebrate with events around the state. Check your city’s website for events in your area. 

In Indianapolis, the Madam Walker Legacy Center will host events throughout the month showcasing art, including concerts and films. Pay your respects and stand where a historic event took place at the Kennedy-King Landmark for Peace Monument. Senator Robert Kennedy was visiting Indianapolis when Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. That night, Kennedy delivered a powerful speech with a message of love, togetherness and justice honoring King. You can also take your family on the Through2Eyes Walking Tour that will take you to various locations in Indianapolis where Black history was made and helped shape the Hoosier state. 

In South Bend, you can take the self-guided African American Landmark Tour and see notable sites important to local Black history, or visit the Huggart Settlement, the first rural African American settlement in Northern Indiana. You can also visit the Indiana University of South Bend Civil Rights Heritage Center. This once-segregated city swimming pool became a learning center where you can learn more about the civil rights movement.  

The Evansville African American Museum is a great place to expand your knowledge of Black history in Indiana. Don’t forget to check the events page for offerings during Black History Month and throughout the year. The museum has also partnered with the Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library to promote recommended reads and support events for all ages throughout February including an art show.  

Celebrating Black history year-round 

National Black History Month provides opportunities to learn, grow and celebrate in February, but we can continue this effort year-round. Locally, support Black-owned restaurants and businesses, donate to Black charities and organizations, and visit museums or exhibits showcasing Black history, art and culture. The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture has an abundance of resources you can access anytime. Access the “Searchable Museum” and digital library from anywhere in the world! 

Other resources include the National Civil Rights Museum, the National Archives, the National Education Association and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, just to name a few.   

Black History Month 2026 highlights a 100-year milestone, but the impact African Americans have had on all aspects of America’s culture goes back even further. We encourage everyone to explore various resources year-long to deepen their understanding and appreciation for those contributions and the history, tradition and culture of the Black community. 

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