Black Heritage Month

The Center for Black Studies, in collaboration with partners across Northern Illinois University, organizes events every February to celebrate Black Heritage Month. All NIU students, staff and faculty are encouraged to attend Black Heritage Month programs to recognize, learn and celebrate the central role of Black diasporic experiences in U.S. history and globally – past, present and future.

2026 Theme: A Century of Black History Commemorations

The Association of the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) was founded by Dr. Carter G. Woodson. In 1926, Negro History Week was established which eventually became Black History Month. This year, 2026, marks the 100th year of Black History Month. 

As we commemorate A Century of Black Excellence, we proudly celebrate 100 years of Black history and 50+ years of Black Studies, a legacy rooted in scholarship, resistance, creativity and global impact. This centennial observance honors the intellectual traditions and community advocacy that have shaped Black Studies as a transformative academic field and sustained Black life, culture and liberation movements worldwide.

Throughout Black History Month, a dynamic lineup of events invites students, faculty, staff and community members to reflect, engage, and celebrate. Programs include thought provoking dialogues on leadership and mentorship, interdisciplinary conversations on activism and coalition building, explorations of Black excellence in sports and cinema, financial empowerment discussions, cultural celebrations of the African diaspora and opportunities for collaborative community engagement.

Together, these events honor the past while envisioning the future of Black Studies and Black history. We invite you to join us in celebrating this historic milestone learn, connect and be part of the next century of Black excellence. Learn more about this year’s theme.

See Black Heritage Month events