100 Years of Black History Month — defense of history amid political attacks
Key Questions
What is the 2026 centennial of Black History Month celebrating?
The centennial marks 100 years since Black History Month began in March 1926, framing it as a key moment to defend curricular access and public memory amid political challenges. It highlights ongoing efforts like campus slavery-reckoning demands and state-level restrictions on textbooks and DEI.
How are educators using the centennial to address attacks on history education?
Educators are mobilizing centennial activities into curricular-defense campaigns to counter restrictions and litigation that could limit classroom access. This includes municipal preservation fights and efforts to maintain public memory of Black history.
What is the connection to Carter G. Woodson in this highlight?
Carter G. Woodson, born in 1875 to former slaves, founded Black History Month and his home is now a National Historic Site. The centennial draws on his legacy to support current defenses of historical education and access.
The 2026 centennial of Black History Month (Mar 1926–Mar 2026 framing) is being used as an organizing moment to defend curricular access and public memory. Signals include campus slavery-reckoning demands, municipal preservation fights, state textbook/DEI restrictions, and litigation that could affect classroom access; educators are mobilizing centennial activities into curricular-defense campaigns.