Celebrating Black History & Heritage Month
The Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ODEI) refers to the month as Black History & Heritage Month. We believe that when recalling Black history, there are correlations to racial traumas and despair, so we add "Heritage" to the month's description because this bonds the rich history of what it means to be Black and the heritage embedded across the various lived experiences of Black and African American people. For ODEI, we celebrate the past, present, and future of Black history and heritage!
What is Black History & Heritage Month?
Black History & Heritage Month is a special collection of days that support the recognition of the Black and African American communities in the United States. In this month of observance, we should celebrate, educate, and reflect on the achievements and contributions of Black and African Americans.
History of Black History & Heritage Month
The idea of observance and celebration for the Black and African American community first originated in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson. However, in 1976, it would become a national month of recognition. As for the 21st century, Black History & Heritage Month has become incorporated everywhere across the U.S., from classrooms to the National Parks. February was appointed to celebrate Black History & Heritage Month because it holds the birthday of former U.S. President Abraham Lincoln and African American abolitionist and orator Frederick Douglass, symbolizing their efforts to establish freedom and rights for the Black and African American community.
Black History & Heritage Month 2026
The 2026 Black History & Heritage Month theme marks the centennial of this annual observance, honoring its origins and development since 1926.
The theme encourages reflection on how commemorating Black history has shaped both community identity and public understanding. The theme also highlights the ongoing importance of recognizing Black history within broader historical narratives as the United States marks its 250th anniversary.
Important Dates for Black History & Heritage Month
1. Feb. 1, 1960 鈥� The Greensboro 4 sit-in re-ignited the civil rights movement.
2. Feb. 2, 2009 鈥� Eric Holde became the first African American Attorney General.
3. Feb. 3, 1870 鈥� On this day, the 15th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, giving African American men the right to vote.
4. On Feb. 9, 1995: Dr. Bernard A. Harris Jr. became the first African American Astronaut to walk in space.
5. Feb. 12, 1909 - The NAACP was founded.
蘑菇TV Events:
from 11 a.m. to noon Feb. 7, at 蘑菇TV Downtown Library (Free)
Khamari 鈥� To Dry a Tear: Part II at 8 p.m. Feb. 19, at the Tower Theatre. Purchase tickets at
from 1 to 3 p.m. Feb. 21, at the Oklahoma History Center. (Free)
All February:
Jakian Parks: The Black Land Exhibition from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Oklahoma Contemporary (Free)
Visit Clara Luper Sit-In Plaza at 59 N Robinson Ave, Oklahoma City, OK (Free)
How You Can Honor Black History & Heritage Month
- Learn about Black history and contemporary achievements and challenges
- Read books and watch films from Black authors and artists
- Shop Black-owned businesses
- Learn about Black leaders
- Volunteer at events for Black History & Heritage Month
- Visit Black-owned restaurants
Sources:
ASALH | About Black History Month
ASALH | Black History Themes
History | Black History Month
Britannica | Black History Month
CBS News | Black History Month Historical Events Calendar
