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African American Heritage Month

Celebrate African American Heritage Month by honoring the rich history and culture of the black community - through events, education, and reflection.

Monday

1–28

February 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of February

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYBlack History

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate African American Heritage Month starting on February 1! This month is a time to honor and recognize the incredible contributions and achievements of African Americans throughout history. From civil rights activists to artists, musicians, athletes, and more – this month is a celebration of the rich culture and heritage of African Americans in the United States. It all started back in 1926 when historian Carter G. Woodson established "Negro History Week", which eventually evolved into what we know today as African American Heritage Month. So let's come together and celebrate the diversity and resilience of the African American community!

TIMELINE

African American Heritage Month Timeline

Negro History Week

Historian Carter G. Woodson and the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History announce the second week of February to be "Negro History Week".

Black History Month Proposal

Black educators and the Black United Students at Kent State University propose Black History Month.

First Celebration of Black History Month

Black History Month is first celebrated at Kent State University in Ohio from January 2 to February 28.

National Recognition

The United States recognizes February as Black History Month during the country's bicentennial. President Gerald Ford urges Americans to "seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans".

Canada Joins the Celebration

Canada officially recognizes February as Black History Month after a motion by the Honourable Jean Augustine, the first Black woman elected to Parliament.

UK Celebration

United Kingdom officially recognizes October as Black History Month; previously it had been honored informally in various regions.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate African American Heritage Month

Attend a cultural festival

Check your local events calendar for any African American heritage festivals happening in your area. These events are a great way to learn about the culture, try traditional foods, and see performances showcasing African American art, music, and dance.

VISIT

Visit a museum or historical site

Take a trip to a museum or historical site dedicated to African American history and heritage. This can be a great opportunity to learn more about important figures and events that have shaped the African American experience.

SUPPORT

Support Black-owned businesses

Use this month as an opportunity to support and uplift Black-owned businesses in your community. This could mean shopping at a local boutique, trying out a new restaurant, or attending a concert or event organized by a Black entrepreneur.

READ

Read books by African American authors

Take some time to read literature written by African American authors, whether it's a classic like "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee, or a contemporary novel like "The Hate U Give" by Angie Thomas. This can help expand your understanding of the Black experience and support Black voices in literature.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer with a local organization

Find a volunteer opportunity with a local organization that supports the African American community. This could involve tutoring students, helping out at a community center, or participating in a neighborhood clean-up project.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why African American Heritage Month is Important

It promotes education and understanding of African American culture and experiences

Black History Month encourages people to learn about different aspects of African American culture, including traditions, art forms, music, cuisine, and more. It also provides an opportunity for individuals to listen to and learn from the stories and experiences of African Americans, fostering a greater sense of empathy and understanding.

It celebrates and honors the rich history and achievements of African Americans

Black History Month is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the diverse contributions that African Americans have made to society. From civil rights leaders and activists to innovators in science, art, and literature, this month is a time to honor their impact and legacy.

It raises awareness for ongoing struggles and inequalities faced by the African American community

While acknowledging past accomplishments, Black History Month also sheds light on the ongoing fight against discrimination and inequity faced by African Americans. It serves as a reminder of the work that still needs to be done in order to achieve true equality for all individuals.

Related holidays

Black History Month

A nationwide observance throughout February recognizing the history, achievements, and culture of African Americans across U.S. life.

African American Appreciation Month

Join us in recognizing and honoring the contributions, achievements, and resilience of African Americans during this important month of appreciation.

Ethnic Equality Month

Let's celebrate diversity and promote understanding during Ethnic Equality Month - because everyone deserves to be treated with respect and equality.

National Heritage Month

Honor your roots and celebrate diversity during National Heritage Month with cultural events, delicious food, and meaningful discussions.

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