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Santa Maria Today
By the People, for the People
Black History Month Celebration Held at Allan Hancock College
Event featured speech and performance by renowned saxophonist William Edward Saxton.
Published on Feb. 26, 2026
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Crowds gathered at Allan Hancock College in Santa Maria, California on Wednesday for a Black History Month celebration organized by the school's student government. The event featured a speech and performance by world-renowned saxophonist William Edward Saxton.
Why it matters
The celebration was part of a series of events held at the college to commemorate Black History Month, which marks its 100th anniversary in 2026 since being launched by Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1926.
The details
The on-campus event was free and open to the public, allowing community members to gather, enjoy jazz music, and hear from speakers like the police chief. The celebration was organized by members of Hancock's student government.
- The event was held on Wednesday, February 26, 2026.
- 2026 marks the 100th anniversary of the first Black History Week launched by Dr. Carter G Woodson in 1926.
The players
William Edward Saxton
A world-renowned saxophonist who performed at the Black History Month celebration.
Edward Lamberson
A member of the Allan Hancock College Associated Student Body Government who helped organize the event.
What they’re saying
“To have these events that people can come get food, it doesn't cost any money. They can meet people that they haven't seen before, experience some jazz music. That wonderful speech by the police chief just, it just exposes the community to things that they just naturally wouldn't.”
— Edward Lamberson, Associated Student Body Government member (ksby.com)
The takeaway
The Black History Month celebration at Allan Hancock College provided an opportunity for the community to come together, experience cultural performances, and learn about the history and significance of Black History Month as it marks its centennial anniversary.
