Black History Month

The Association for the Study of African American Life and History brings us the 2026 National Black History Month theme, "Century of Black History Commemorations” marks 100 years of national observances dedicated to honoring the lives, struggles, and achievements of African Americans. This milestone invites us to reflect on the origins and enduring significance of these commemorations, which began with Dr. Carter G. Woodson and his colleagues’ founding of the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH) in 1915. Their vision institutionalized the study and celebration of Black history, laying the foundation for what would become Negro History Week in 1926 and, eventually, Black History Month. This year’s theme encourages us to explore the profound impact of these commemorations on shaping identity, fostering pride, and advancing equality. From early celebrations of emancipation and the Haitian Revolution to modern observances like Juneteenth, Black history has served as a beacon of resilience and hope. As Arthur A. Schomburg declared, “The American Negro must remake his past in order to make his future.” That call remains urgent today, as forces seek to erase or diminish Black history through censorship and exclusion. Understanding the role of Black History Month in the modern world especially as we also mark the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence requires telling not only an inclusive history but an accurate one. These commemorations are not mere traditions; they are vital acts of resistance and affirmation. They remind us that Black history’s value lies not only in its contribution to national narratives but in its enduring resonance in the lives of Black people everywhere.

The Black Print: The Hands That Build Nations, beautifully aligns with the national theme, "African Americans and Labor," by highlighting the immense contributions of Black individuals in building and shaping societies. By celebrating these contributions, the themes collectively recognize the resilience, ingenuity, and strength of the Black community in shaping nations and their histories. This connection underscores the importance of acknowledging and honoring Black labor and its transformational impact throughout time.

•  Meet Daniel Gray-Kontar, BNAACC's new Associate Director of Arts & Cultural Programming
  • Date: Wednesday, February 5th
  • Time: 12 - 1 PM
  • Location: BNAACC; 1212 W. Nevada St., Urbana, IL

•  Chicago Footwork as Resistance, The Power in Every Step - the University of Illinois System Black Cultural Centers Collaboration
  • Date: Thursday, February 6th
  • Time: Depart at 1:00 PM
  • Location: University of Illinois Chicago - Black Cultural Center
  • RSVP: https://go.illinois.edu/BHMFieldTrip
  • Note: Transportation and Dinner Provided

• From Soul Train To House: How the Youth of Chicago Sowed Loved, Freedom, and Resistance to Create Global Musical Revolution
  • Date: Tuesday, February 11th
  • Time: 7:00 pm
  • Location: Illini Union, Courtyard Cafe 

• Art, History and Social Responsibility W/ Dr. Ruby Mendenhall
  • Date: Wednesday, February 12th
  • Time: 12pm - 1pm
  • Location: BNAACC; 1212 W. Nevada St., Urbana, IL

• Jollof Cook-off! 
  • Date: Tuesday, February 18th
  • Time: 5:00 - 7:00 PM
  • Location: 1867 in the Illinois Street Dining Center (ISR Dining Center); 1010 W Illinois St, Urbana, IL 61801
  • Sign-up To Be A Chef: https://go.illinois.edu/Jollof 

• Exploring Family Ancestral Histories Through Genetic Genealogy w/Dr. Lakisha T. David
  • Date: Wednesday, February 19th
  • Time: 12 - 1 PM
  • Location: BNAACC; 1212 W. Nevada St., Urbana, IL

• Becoming Malcolm X & Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. w/ Dr. Alexia Williams
  • Date: Wednesday, February 26th
  • Time: 12 - 1 PM
  • Location: BNAACC; 1212 W. Nevada St., Urbana, IL 61801