Trump Hosts Black History Month Reception After Racist Obama Post

The event comes weeks after Trump posted a video depicting the Obamas as primates, sparking backlash.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

President Donald Trump hosted a White House reception for Black History Month on Wednesday, less than two weeks after he posted a racist video on social media that depicted former President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle Obama, as primates in a jungle. Trump did not reference the video or Barack Obama during the event, but spoke of other history-making Black Americans and praised some of his Black supporters.

Why it matters

Trump's hosting of the Black History Month reception comes amid ongoing criticism of his policies and rhetoric that often contradict celebrations of diversity and the contributions of Black Americans. The event follows a recent incident where Trump posted a racist video targeting the Obamas, which sparked bipartisan outrage.

The details

At the reception, Trump name-checked prominent Black Americans among his supporters, including boxer Mike Tyson and rapper Nicki Minaj. He also brought onstage several members of his administration, including Housing and Urban Development Secretary Scott Turner and White House pardon czar Alice Marie Johnson, who praised Trump's support for the Black community. Trump listed ways he said his policies benefited Black Americans, including a law he signed eliminating federal income taxes on tips and his deployment of National Guard troops 'to bring back safety' in cities with large Black populations.

  • On February 4, 2026, Trump posted a racist video depicting the Obamas as primates.
  • The White House reception for Black History Month was held on February 18, 2026, less than two weeks after the racist video post.

The players

Donald Trump

The President of the United States who hosted the Black History Month reception at the White House.

Barack Obama

The former President of the United States who was depicted in a racist video posted by Trump.

Michelle Obama

The former First Lady of the United States who was also depicted in the racist video posted by Trump.

Scott Turner

The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development in the Trump administration.

Alice Marie Johnson

The White House pardon czar in the Trump administration.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'As you look out upon this sea of Black Americans, this president hears you. This president cares for you. Don't let anyone tell you that this president right here, Donald Trump has not — is not for Black America,'”

— Alice Marie Johnson, White House pardon czar (Instagram)

The takeaway

Trump's hosting of the Black History Month reception, following his recent racist post targeting the Obamas, highlights the president's ongoing efforts to portray himself as a champion of the Black community despite his policies and rhetoric that often contradict such claims.