BlackPast.org Honors Founder Dr. Quintard Taylor Jr. with Celebration of Life

The event will commemorate the life and legacy of the renowned Black historian and educator.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 11:47pm

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On February 7, 2026, BlackPast.org will host a community celebration to honor the life and legacy of its founder, Dr. Quintard Taylor Jr., a renowned historian, educator, author, and Fulbright Scholar who passed away in 2025. The free public event will feature music, dance, devotionals, and tributes celebrating Black history, which Dr. Taylor dedicated his life to preserving through BlackPast.org, the world's largest online encyclopedia on Black history.

Why it matters

Dr. Taylor's work transformed the informational landscape for Black history worldwide, and this celebration will honor his enduring impact while looking forward to the future of BlackPast.org as it approaches its 20th anniversary. The event aims to foster understanding through knowledge and generate constructive change in the community.

The details

The celebration will include live performances by Adefua Cultural Drumming and Dance, the New Beginnings Mass Choir, and messages from distinguished faith leaders and community leaders, including The Honorable Denny Heck, Lieutenant Governor of Washington State. Guests can explore displays of Dr. Taylor's publications and books, engage with interactive booths, and share memories or reflections on his impact.

  • The celebration will take place on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 3 p.m.
  • Dr. Quintard Taylor Jr. passed away in September 2025.

The players

Dr. Quintard Taylor Jr.

A renowned historian, educator, author and Fulbright Scholar who founded BlackPast.org, the world's largest online encyclopedia on Black history.

The Honorable Denny Heck

The Lieutenant Governor of Washington State, who will provide a message at the celebration.

Adefua Cultural Drumming and Dance

A live performance group that will be featured at the celebration.

New Beginnings Mass Choir

A choir that will perform at the celebration.

Casey Family Programs

An organization that provided a grant and support to make the event possible.

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What’s next

The celebration marks the approaching 20th anniversary of BlackPast.org, and the organization will continue its mission to provide comprehensive, reliable, and accurate information on the history of African Americans and people of African ancestry worldwide.

The takeaway

This event honors the life and legacy of a pioneering Black historian whose work has had a transformative impact on the field of Black history and the understanding of African American experiences. It serves as a testament to the enduring importance of preserving and sharing Black history to foster greater knowledge and positive change in society.