Trump Hosts Black History Month Reception Weeks After Racist Video Backlash

The president highlighted Black supporters but did not mention former President Barack Obama.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

President Donald Trump hosted a White House reception for Black History Month, less than two weeks after he sparked 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 among his supporters.

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 event comes amid ongoing questions about Trump's record on race and his relationship with the Black community.

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 Black America. 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 5, 2026, Trump posted a racist video on social media depicting the Obamas as primates.
  • On February 19, 2026, Trump hosted the White House reception for Black History Month.

The players

Donald Trump

The 45th President of the United States who hosted the Black History Month reception at the White House.

Barack Obama

The 44th 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.

Mike Tyson

A boxer who Trump praised for defending him against accusations of racism.

Nicki Minaj

A rapper whose skin Trump praised as 'so beautiful' while commenting on the length of her fingernails.

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,' because he is.”

— Alice Marie Johnson, White House pardon czar

The takeaway

Trump's hosting of the Black History Month reception comes amid ongoing questions about his record on race and his relationship with the Black community, as his policies and rhetoric have often contradicted celebrations of diversity and the contributions of Black Americans.