Black History Month 2026 | Montgomery College, Maryland

A Century of Black History Commemorations: 1926–2026: Honoring 100 Years of Legacy, Leadership, and Liberation

In 2026, we commemorate a landmark moment: 100 years since the founding of Negro History Week, the precursor to today’s Black History Month. This pivotal observance began in 1926, thanks to the visionary work of Dr. Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH), now known as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). See the flyer (PDF, ) .

Dr. Woodson, along with fellow scholars and civic leaders including George Cleveland Hall, William D. Hartgrove, Jesse E. Moorland, Alexander L. Jackson, and James E. Stamps, believed that history was a tool of empowerment. At a time when Black people were erased or misrepresented in textbooks and public life, their mission was revolutionary: to research, preserve, and honor the central role of Black people in American and world history.

Negro History Week was intentionally placed in February to coincide with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln, two figures deeply respected in Black communities. However, this was never meant to be symbolic. It was a nationwide educational movement—mobilizing schools, churches, newspapers, and community groups to affirm the dignity, leadership, and creativity of Black people.

Over the decades, this initiative evolved. Driven by the energy of educators, students, and civil rights activists, it grew into Black History Month, formally recognized by President Gerald R. Ford in 1976, and later codified by Congress in 1986.

Today, Black History Month is embraced globally—in classrooms, museums, libraries, workplaces, and communities—because of those who refused to let Black stories be forgotten. Their work lives on through us.

“The American Negro must remake his past in order to make his future.”
— Arturo Schomburg

This month, as we reflect on a century of Black history commemorations, we carry forward the work of remembrance, education, and justice. Join Montgomery College in celebrating a living legacy.

Featured Events

Opening Address: Dr. Jermaine F. Williams
February 3, 12–1 p.m. - Virtual
Kick off Black History Month with a powerful message from President Jermaine F. Williams, reflecting on this year’s national theme and the importance of honoring history with purpose.
Register

Cooking with Chef Jerome Grant
February 10, 1–3 p.m. - Hybrid (In-Person & Zoom)
Taste, learn, and connect through the stories and flavors of African American heritage. Chef Jerome Grant brings history alive through food in this delicious and immersive experience.
Register

The Divine Nine: Leadership in Motion
February 12, 1–2 p.m. - Virtual
A vibrant panel with members of the Divine Nine explores the impact of Black Greek-letter organizations on civil rights, education, and leadership.
Register

Employee Massage Therapy
February 17, 10 a.m.–2 p.m., - CT S108
Take time to recharge! A special event to appreciate our hardworking staff.
Wellness registration & waiver required. Waivers will be available at the event, however, Wellness registration is require beforehand.

Film Screening: Ain’t No Back to a Merry-Go-Round
February 19, 5–8 p.m. - In Person
Join us for a screening of Ain't No Back To A Merry-Go-Round, a documentary that explores the 1960 alliance between Howard University students and Jewish community members fighting for the integration of the Glen Echo Amusement Park. With never-before seen footage and immersive storytelling by Emmy-award winning director Ilana Trachtman, four living protesters share this little-known story, revealing how Black and Jewish activists collaborated during the Civil Rights Movement. A panel discussion with Trachtman and Glen Echo Park protester Tina Clarke will follow the screening.

Our Words, Our Worlds: Honoring Black Women’s Voices
February 25, 12:30–1:45 p.m. - Germantown Campus
An artistic and poetic journey celebrating the contributions of Black women through storytelling and historical reflection.
Details forthcoming.

Explore Black History Every Day

National Events from ASALH

Join ASALH in celebrating this centennial year through national programs, lectures, and convenings:

Continuing the Legacy

This month and always, MC proudly stands with the Black community in honoring the past, educating the present, and building toward a just future.

Let’s make Black History Month 2026 unforgettable.

Let’s commemorate. Let’s reflect. Let’s celebrate — together.