Columbus Celebrates 41st Annual Black History Month Breakfast

Community leaders gathered to honor local residents making positive contributions.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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The 41st annual Black History Month Breakfast in Columbus, Georgia brought together community leaders to recognize individuals making a difference in areas like education and community service. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty served as the keynote speaker, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement and voting.

Why it matters

The Black History Month Breakfast is a longstanding tradition in Columbus that celebrates the contributions of African Americans in the local community. It provides an opportunity to highlight role models and inspire greater civic participation.

The details

During the event, 10 people were recognized for their contributions in areas including education and community service. Congresswoman Joyce Beatty, who grew up during the civil rights movement, delivered the keynote address and encouraged attendees to make their voices heard through voting.

  • The 41st annual Black History Month Breakfast took place on February 17, 2026.

The players

Joyce Beatty

Congresswoman representing Ohio's 3rd congressional district and the keynote speaker at the event.

Kia Chambers

School board member who was among the 10 individuals honored for their contributions to the community.

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What they’re saying

“Black History Month is personal to me. I grew up in an era of time in the civil rights movement. Black history means so much to me, I try to make my life and my work committed to advancing all of the things black history represents.”

— Joyce Beatty (WTVM)

“I do the work that I do in the community whether it's on the school board or in the other organizations I'm apart of, I do it because I love this city.”

— Kia Chambers, School Board Member (WTVM)

The takeaway

The Black History Month Breakfast in Columbus continues to be an important annual event that celebrates the contributions of African Americans in the local community and inspires greater civic engagement.