Black History Month

The Association for the Study of African American Life and History brings us the 2026 National Black History Month theme, "Century of Black History Commemorations” marks 100 years of national observances dedicated to honoring the lives, struggles, and achievements of African Americans. This milestone invites us to reflect on the origins and enduring significance of these commemorations, which began with Dr. Carter G. Woodson and his colleagues’ founding of the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH) in 1915. Their vision institutionalized the study and celebration of Black history, laying the foundation for what would become Negro History Week in 1926 and, eventually, Black History Month. This year’s theme encourages us to explore the profound impact of these commemorations on shaping identity, fostering pride, and advancing equality. From early celebrations of emancipation and the Haitian Revolution to modern observances like Juneteenth, Black history has served as a beacon of resilience and hope. As Arthur A. Schomburg declared, “The American Negro must remake his past in order to make his future.” That call remains urgent today, as forces seek to erase or diminish Black history through censorship and exclusion. Understanding the role of Black History Month in the modern world especially as we also mark the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence requires telling not only an inclusive history but an accurate one. These commemorations are not mere traditions; they are vital acts of resistance and affirmation. They remind us that Black history’s value lies not only in its contribution to national narratives but in its enduring resonance in the lives of Black people everywhere.

Legacy in Motion: A Century of Black History is the guiding theme for Black History Month at BNAACC, centered on honoring the 100-year legacy of Black History Month and the enduring impact of Black history, culture, and community. The theme recognizes the many ways Black people have shaped society through creativity, leadership, storytelling, and collective care across generations.

Through interconnected programming including the Black History Month Kickoff and Food for the Soul, BNAACC and Chill, and Space Activation, participants engage with key eras of Black history through food, film, performance, and visual displays. These experiences create opportunities for learning, reflection, and connection while uplifting influential figures, movements, and cultural expressions.

Together, these initiatives present Black history as an evolving legacy, honoring the contributions of the past while celebrating the creativity and vision that continue to shape Black futures

•  Kick-off Celebration
  • Date: Sunday, February 1st
  • Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
  • Location: Illinois Union Courtyard Cafe

•  BNAACC & Chill Movie Night with Dr. Erik McDuffie
  • Date: Tuesday, February 3rd
  • Time: 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM
  • Location: Bruce D. Nesbitt African American Cultural Center

• Jollof Cook-off with The African Students Organization and University Dining
  • Date: Friday, February 6th
  • Time: 5:00 PM -7:00 PM
  • Location: ISR Table 1867

• Roots to Roux to Rhythm - Featuring: Yanna Cello, Dr. Bobby J. Smith II, and Chef Carrie Anderson
  • Hosts: BNAACC, UIC Black Cultural Center, and UIS Diversity Center
  • Date: Monday, February 9th
  • Location 1: Illini Union, Illini Rooms B&C
  • Time: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
  • Location 2: BNAACC; 1212 W. Nevada St., Urbana, IL
  • Time: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

• BNAACC & Chill Movie Night
  • Date: Tuesday, February 10th
  • Time: 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM
  • Location: BNAACC; 1212 W. Nevada St., Urbana, IL

• Black and Latinx Summit Co-hosted by BNAACC and La Casa Cultural Latina
  • Date: Saturday, February 21st
  • Time: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Location: I-Hotel and Conference Center (1900 S. First Street, Champaign, IL.)
  • Register: https://ssib.illinois.edu/BlackandLatinxSummit 

• BNAACC & Chill Movie Night with Dr. Eddie O'Bryan & Dr. Mary Phillips
  • Date: Tuesday, February 24th
  • Time: 6:00 pm - 8:30 PM
  • Location: BNAACC; 1212 W. Nevada St., Urbana, IL 61801
  • Film: The Black Power Mixtape 1967 - 1975

• BNAACC & Chill Movie Night with University Library
  • Date: Thursday, February 26th
  • Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
  • Location: BNAACC; 1212 W. Nevada St., Urbana, IL 61801
  • Film: The Edge of Each Other's Battles