Black History Month 2026 Theme Celebrates Century of Commemorations

Annual observance highlights African American military service and achievements across history

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The 2026 Black History Month theme will focus on commemorating a century of Black history celebrations and recognizing the vital contributions of African Americans to the United States, including their service and sacrifice in the military since the Revolutionary War. The theme will highlight pioneering figures like Crispus Attucks, Peter Salem, and Salem Poor, as well as the achievements of units like the Harlem Hellfighters and Tuskegee Airmen.

Why it matters

Black History Month provides an important opportunity to reflect on the profound impact African Americans have had on the nation's history, culture, and progress. By centering this year's theme on a century of commemorations, the observance will underscore the long-standing efforts to honor and preserve Black history, as well as the continued need to recognize the ongoing struggle for racial equity and justice.

The details

The 2026 Black History Month theme will spotlight the military service of African Americans dating back to the Revolutionary War, including the heroic actions of figures like Crispus Attucks, Peter Salem, and Salem Poor. It will also highlight the achievements of pioneering units such as the Harlem Hellfighters of World War I, the 761st Tank Battalion ('Patton's Panthers') of World War II, and the trailblazing Tuskegee Airmen. These soldiers overcame segregation and discrimination to make invaluable contributions to the nation's defense.

  • The 2026 Black History Month observance will take place in February.
  • Crispus Attucks was killed during the Boston Massacre on March 5, 1770.
  • Peter Salem fought at the Battle of Lexington and Concord in 1775 and the Battle of Bunker Hill in 1775.
  • Salem Poor received a commendation for his bravery at the Battle of Bunker Hill in 1775.
  • The 369th Infantry ('Harlem Hellfighters') fought in France for 191 days during World War I, longer than any other American unit.

The players

Crispus Attucks

An African American man who was the first to die in the Boston Massacre, an event that helped spark the American Revolution.

Peter Salem

An African American patriot who fought alongside his former owners at the battles of Lexington and Concord, and is credited with killing British Major John Pitcairn during the Battle of Bunker Hill.

Salem Poor

An African American who fought at the Battle of Bunker Hill and was commended for his bravery, credited with killing British Lieutenant Colonel Abercrombie.

Harlem Hellfighters

An all-Black regiment of the U.S. Army that fought in France during World War I for a total of 191 days, longer than any other American unit without having a soldier captured or losing a single trench.

Tuskegee Airmen

The first African American military aviators in the U.S. military, who formed the 332nd Fighter Group ('Red Tails') and the 477th Bombardment Group (Medium) of the United States Army Air Forces during World War II.

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The takeaway

This year's Black History Month theme underscores the long and proud tradition of African American military service, as well as the ongoing efforts to commemorate and preserve Black history. By highlighting pioneering figures and units, the observance will inspire continued reflection on the profound contributions of African Americans to the nation's history, progress, and defense.