Black History Month

About Black History Month (February)

Black History Month, or National African American History Month, is an annual celebration of achievements by Black Americans and a time for recognizing the central role of African Americans in U.S history. Dr. Carter G. Woodson founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life, which initiated the first variation of Black History month, titled, Negro History Week in 1926 during the second week of February. In 1970 according to the Kent Stater, Kent State University began observance of Black History Month, however, it was not until 1976 that every president designated the month of February as Black History Month. 


2024 Theme: Black Excellence in every Aspect, Shade, and Expression

The 2024 Black History Month theme is "Black excellence in every aspect, shade, and expression", or simply, ÀSE. Àse is a Yoruba term that represents the power that produces change. Defining Black excellence can be challenging because Black people have, and continue to demonstrate the power that produces change through culture, arts, talent, business, innovation, or by just overcoming challenges. This theme allows us to recognize and celebrate both the achievements and the adversity throughout the Black community, inclusive of all the diverse identities and unique expressions within. Similar to when spoken in community Àse is call to uplift the power that produces change.


Feature your events on the Black History Month website

  1. Submit your events to the University Events Calendar
  2. Under “Help People Connect,” select the category Signature Programs and select the topic Black History Month

Black History Month Events

(View list of events below)