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National Black Women in Jazz and the Arts Day

A cultural observance on March 1 celebrating the contributions and achievements of Black women in jazz music, visual arts, and performing arts.

Monday

March 2027

Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEMarch 1

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYBlack History

ORIGIN

Institutional Initiative

FOUNDING ENTITY

Black Women in Jazz & the Arts Awards

FIRST OBSERVED

2016

HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

The Black Women in Jazz & the Arts Awards, a Georgia-based organization, established the observance on March 1, 2016, to recognize and platform Black female artists overlooked in male-dominated fields. It coincides with the start of Women's History Month.

Institutional Recordvia daysoftheyear.com

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Mark your calendars for March 1, because it's National Black Women in Jazz and the Arts Day! This special day was first recognized in 2009 by President Barack Obama to honor the contributions of black women in jazz music and all forms of arts. From singers and musicians to dancers, writers, and visual artists, black women have made a significant impact on the world of art and continue to inspire future generations. So let's take a moment to celebrate their talent, creativity, and resilience with some toe-tapping tunes and captivating artworks. Get ready for a day filled with culture, empowerment, and appreciation!

TIMELINE

National Black Women in Jazz and the Arts Day Timeline

Jazz Age Begins

The Jazz Age commences. Black women like Ma Rainey and Bessie Smith make significant strides in the male-dominated world of jazz.

Ella Fitzgerald's Debut

Ella Fitzgerald, one of the most influential jazz vocalists of all times, makes her debut at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, New York.

Nina Simone's Rise

Musician and civil rights activist Nina Simone begins her recording career, contributing jazz music enriched with gospel and pop elements.

Faith Ringgold's Art Exploration

Faith Ringgold introduces her famous “story quilts,” where she combined painting, quilted fabric, and storytelling to challenge racist and sexist biases.

Toni Morrison's Nobel Prize

Renowned writer Toni Morrison becomes the first African American woman to win the Nobel Prize for Literature.

Inception of Holiday

National Black Women in Jazz and the Arts Day is recognized by President Barack Obama, celebrating and honoring the contributions of black women in jazz and the arts.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Black Women in Jazz and the Arts Day

Attend a concert or show featuring black women in jazz and the arts

Support local black women artists by attending a concert or show that highlights their talents in jazz and the arts. Check your local events calendar for performances or exhibitions.

HOST

Host a movie night featuring films about black women in jazz and the arts

Gather some friends and watch movies that celebrate the contributions of black women in jazz and the arts. This can be a fun and educational way to celebrate the day.

CREATE

Create art inspired by black women in jazz and the arts

Tap into your creativity and make art that celebrates black women in jazz and the arts. This can be anything from a painting to a poem to a dance routine.

READ

Read a book by a black woman in the jazz and arts industry

Support black women authors by reading a book that explores their experiences in the world of jazz and the arts. This can be a great way to learn more about their contributions and struggles.

DONATE

Donate to organizations that support black women in jazz and the arts

Show your support for black women in jazz and the arts by donating to organizations that promote and empower them. This can make a real difference in their lives and careers.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Black Women in Jazz and the Arts Day

Recognizing diversity and representation

National Black Women in Jazz and the Arts Day serves as a reminder of the importance of diversity and representation in these industries. By celebrating the accomplishments of Black women, it emphasizes the need for more diverse voices and experiences in art and music.

Celebrating the contributions of Black women in jazz and the arts

National Black Women in Jazz and the Arts Day is a day to recognize and honor the talented female artists who have made invaluable contributions to these industries. It's an opportunity to showcase their talent and give them the recognition they deserve!

Inspiring future generations

This day also serves as a platform to inspire young girls and women to pursue their passions in these fields. By highlighting the achievements of Black women in jazz and the arts, we can encourage future generations to continue breaking barriers and pushing boundaries.

Related holidays

International Week of Black Women In the Arts

Get ready to be inspired by the amazing talents of black women in the arts during International Week of Black Women In the Arts. Don't miss out!

International Women of Color Day

A cultural observance on March 1 recognizing the achievements, contributions, and issues facing women of color from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.

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Feb 2026