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.
2025 Theme: The Black Experience: Resiliency, Reclamation, Recovery
In honor of the 55th anniversary of Black History Month, we celebrate The Black Experience through the pillars of Resiliency, Reclamation, and Recovery. This theme reflects the strength of Black communities, the power of reclaiming history and identity, and the importance of holistic well-being. Together, these elements honor the journey of Black people in America and pay tribute to the legacy of Kent State University, the birthplace of Black History Month.
Resiliency
Minute by minute, hour by hour, Black people transform adversity into strength. Since Kent State University students and faculty created Black History Month 55 years ago, generations have carried this torch of resilience, symbolizing an unbreakable spirit of faith, courage, and community. This year, we remember that time is powerful—each minute, each hour—carrying us forward and uplifting our race. Our faith in each other and in our shared history is the foundation of our power, as we hold fast to the belief that we were once great, we are great, and we shall remain great.
Reclamation
Reclamation is our right and our power. For 55 years, Black History Month has served as an annual reclamation of Black identity and culture, a time for celebrating Black excellence. Inspired by the pioneering student activism at Kent State, this month we reclaim our stories, identities, and legacies. Education for liberation, grassroots movements, and cultural affirmations are our tools for creating a stronger future. As we continue this legacy, we remember that when we reclaim our history, we reclaim our power, and when we speak our truth, we amplify our strength and elevate our voice.
Recovery
To thrive, we must care for our minds, bodies, and spirits. Recovery means prioritizing community support, mental health, and collective healing. Throughout the month, we embrace a holistic approach to wellness that nurtures mind, body, and spirit. Recovery in this sense is not only self-care but collective care, fostering the strength to carry forward Kent State’s legacy of empowerment.
In "The Black Experience: Resiliency, Reclamation, Recovery," we honor 55 years of Black History Month and the vision that began at Kent State University. We celebrate each moment, each milestone, and the shared journey of past, present, and future generations. This is a time to walk with faith, courage, and unity—uplifting each other as we continue a legacy of growth, healing, and empowerment minute by minute, hour by hour.
Feature your events on the Black History Month website
- Submit your events to the University Events Calendar
- 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)