Black History Month: A Century of Black History Commemorations

Black History Month: A Century of Black History Commemorations

Published on February 01, 2026

Celebrated every February, Black History Month is filled with events, exhibitions, shared resources and discussions on the Black experience in America.

This year's theme, "A Century of Black History Commemorations," showcases the significant impact of national commemorations of Black history throughout history. For the 100th theme, the founders of Black History Month urge the nation to explore the impact and meaning of Black history and life commemorations in transforming the status of Black people in the modern world.

The City of Lakewood joins hundreds of public and private organizations in paying tribute to this important commemoration and celebration of diversity in our community. See our proclamation in recognition of Black History Month (side panel).

Origins of Black History Month

Black History Month grew out of the work of Harvard-trained historian Carter G. Woodson and other prominent African Americans in the 1910s. Their organization, known today as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (or ASALH), is dedicated to researching and promoting achievements by Black Americans and other peoples of African descent.

The commemorative week that they initially created inspired schools and communities nationwide to organize local festivities, establish history clubs and host performances and lectures that has since morphed into a month-long celebration.

Resources to learn more

The Los Angeles County Library (lacountylibrary.org) has curated a Black History Month booklist sharing a range of voices that continue to tell the stories of African American struggle, history, art and love. It will also host many in-person events in celebration of Black History Month at branches across the region, including Lakewood's two libraries.

For additional resources, educational materials and opportunities to learn more about Black History Month, visit BlackHistoryMonth.gov.

Lakewood library programs

Come to a Lakewood library for their programs commemorating the month.

Check the LA County Library event calendar to register for these events.

Angelo M. Iacoboni Library

MakMo: Coding the Traffic Light event (teens ages 13-18) - Thursday, Feb. 5 at 4 p.m.

Teens can learn and celebrate Garrett Morgan's contributions to traffic safety.

Our Place in the Sun event (adults) - Wednesday, Feb. 18 at 6 p.m.

Attendees will create Black Beaches bags and learn about the places and spaces that existed for African American families to rest, relax and fully be themselves.

George Nye, Jr. Library

Our Place in the Sun event (adults) - Tuesday, Feb. 3 at 5 p.m.

Attendees will create Black Beaches bags and learn about the places and spaces that existed for African American families to rest, relax and fully be themselves.

City Proclamation

• Commemorations