Toledo Celebrates African-American History Month with Community Events

Local organizations honor Black leaders and culture through exhibits, programs, and celebrations.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Toledo is commemorating Black History Month with a variety of events and initiatives that highlight the contributions of African-Americans in the community. From exhibits at the Imagination Station to speaker series and anniversary celebrations, the city is coming together to recognize the rich history and ongoing impact of its Black residents.

Why it matters

Celebrating Black History Month is an important way for Toledo to honor the legacy of its African-American community members, many of whom have played pivotal roles in shaping the city's culture, businesses, and civic life over the past century. These events provide opportunities for education, reflection, and community building.

The details

Key events include an exhibit at the Imagination Station featuring treasures from the tomb of Tutankhamun, a community conversation on the history of Negro Baseball Leagues, and anniversary celebrations for local organizations like the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women's Clubs and the Toledo Chapter of The Links, Inc. The Toledo Bar Association also hosted a diversity potluck luncheon featuring a talk on Frederick Douglass.

  • The Tutankhamun exhibit runs through April 26, 2026.
  • The Negro Baseball Leagues community conversation is scheduled for February 26, 2026.
  • The 58th annual Debutante Cotillion hosted by the Toledo Chapter of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women's Clubs is planned for May 23, 2026.
  • The Toledo Chapter of The Links, Inc. was established in 1972.

The players

Tyra Smith

President of the Toledo Chapter of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women's Clubs.

Erin R. Baker

President of the Toledo Chapter of The Links, Inc.

Marcus Harrison

President of the Press Club of Toledo and director of marketing and communications at WGTE Public Media.

Heather Schramm

Vice president of the Press Club of Toledo and assignment editor at WTOL 11.

Diana Schaub

Guest speaker at the Toledo Bar Association's annual diversity potluck luncheon, discussing "Frederick Douglass: The Heart & Mind of a Patriot".

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

Toledo's celebration of Black History Month showcases the city's vibrant African-American community and its longstanding commitment to honoring Black leaders, culture, and history. These events provide valuable opportunities for education, community engagement, and reflection on the ongoing fight for racial justice and equity.