Trump Hosts Black History Month Reception Weeks After Racist Video Backlash

The president praised supporters like Mike Tyson and Nicki Minaj but did not mention Barack Obama.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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President Donald Trump hosted a White House reception for Black History Month on Wednesday, less than two weeks after he sparked a bipartisan outcry by posting 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, the nation's first Black president, but spoke of other history-making Black Americans.

Why it matters

Trump's policies and rhetoric while in office have often contradicted celebrations of diversity and the contributions of Black Americans, as he has targeted diversity, equity and inclusion programs that helped many Black Americans find jobs. This reception comes amid ongoing questions about Trump's record on racial issues.

The details

At the reception, Trump name-checked prominent Black Americans among his supporters, including boxer Mike Tyson and rapper Nicki Minaj. He 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 for supporting Black America. Trump also listed ways he said his policies benefited Black Americans, including a law eliminating federal income taxes on tips and the deployment of National Guard troops 'to bring back safety' in cities with large Black populations.

  • The reception came less than two weeks after Trump posted a racist video on social media.
  • The reception was held on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

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

Barack Obama

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

Michelle Obama

The wife of former President Barack Obama, 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.

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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. Because he is.”

— Alice Marie Johnson, White House pardon czar

The takeaway

This reception highlights the ongoing tensions and contradictions in Trump's relationship with the Black community, as he has both celebrated Black history and enacted policies that have undermined diversity and inclusion efforts. The event comes amid continued scrutiny of Trump's record on racial issues.