Why Black History Month Matters And How to Honor It in the Workplace in 2026

As we enter Black History Month 2026, organizations have a rare and meaningful opportunity to participate in a truly historic moment. This year marks the 100th anniversary of formally celebrating Black history, dating back to the establishment of Negro History Week in 1926 by historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson. The 2026 observance carries the national theme “A Century of Black History Commemoration,” encouraging workplaces, schools, and communities to reflect on a century of learning, honoring, and uplifting Black experiences.

For employers, the centennial celebration invites an even deeper exploration of why Black History Month matters, how far workplace equity has come, and just as importantly, how far there is still to go. As a workplace culture training company, we believe this milestone offers a powerful opportunity to recommit to inclusion, empathy, and shared learning across every part of the employee experience.

Why Black History Month Matters - Especially in the Centennial Year

This year’s theme, “A Century of Black History Commemoration,” underscores a crucial truth: for 100 years, the act of honoring Black history has been a catalyst for reflection, education, and progress. And yet, the core purpose of Black History Month remains as relevant in the workplace today as it was a century ago.

1. Black History Month Builds Cultural Competence

The centennial reminds us that studying Black history isn’t an annual tradition; it’s an ongoing educational responsibility. When employees understand the historical context that shaped modern workplaces, they are better equipped to foster empathy, reduce bias, and build healthier working relationships.

2. It Honors a Century of Achievements and Contributions

From scientists and inventors to artists, civil rights leaders, entrepreneurs, and modern innovators across every industry, Black excellence is woven into the fabric of society. The 100th anniversary offers a meaningful opportunity for organizations to highlight the leaders - past and present - whose work shapes our world.

3. It Strengthens Company Culture and Employee Belonging

Workplaces are more engaged, creative, and resilient when employees feel seen and valued. A thoughtful, intentional approach to honoring Black History Month boosts belonging for Black team members while modeling inclusive behavior for the entire organization.

4. It Creates Space for Honest Reflection and Growth

A century of commemoration invites a century’s worth of reflection. This includes celebrating progress, acknowledging inequities that persist, and identifying new paths toward equitable opportunity. Workplaces that use this month for learning - not just celebration - set the stage for lasting cultural transformation.

How to Celebrate Black History Month in the Workplace (2026 Edition)

While many organizations already observe BHM, the centennial year calls for a deeper, more intentional approach. Here are meaningful and authentic ways to honor this landmark anniversary.

1. Anchor Your Programs in the 2026 Theme

Use “A Century of Black History Commemoration” as a guiding framework for internal events, learning opportunities, and employee engagement initiatives.

This could include:

• A timeline exhibit of historical milestones of Black leaders related to your industry

• A speaker series tracing 100 years of progress and challenges

• A digital storytelling campaign featuring past and present contributions

Grounding your celebration in the theme strengthens relevance and builds continuity with the national observance.

2. Offer Centennial-Focused Education and Training

Leverage the 100th anniversary as an opportunity to deepen organizational learning.

This could be through:

• Workshops on the history of workplace equity and civil rights

• Educational content on key historical figures and movements

• Corporate training on inclusive communication, anti-bias practices, and psychological safety

Educational initiatives are meaningful and strengthen your internal DEI infrastructure.

3. Highlight Black Innovators Across the Century

From 1926 to 2026, Black leaders have shaped every major industry.

Celebrate this impact by:

• Publishing weekly feature stories on Black professionals in your field

• Curating resources that spotlight historical and contemporary innovators

• Sharing videos, podcasts, or interviews that explore a century of achievement

This approach blends storytelling with education, increasing engagement and visibility.

4. Support Black-Owned Businesses: Past, Present, and Future

Amplify economic empowerment for Black communities.

As a workplace, you can do this by:

• Partnering with Black-owned vendors for food, services, or company swag

• Offering internal lists or “spotlight weeks” promoting local Black-owned businesses

• Providing stipends or rewards encouraging employees to shop at Black-owned businesses throughout February

This is a tangible way to honor past resilience while investing in future growth.

5. Host Reflective Conversations Anchored in the Centennial

The 100-year anniversary creates a unique opening for deeper, more reflective dialogue.

Facilitate discussions such as:

• What has changed in workplace equity over the last 100 years?

• What progress has our organization made, and what gaps remain?

• How can we honor a century of commemoration with action, not just recognition?

Provide psychologically safe spaces, ensure participation is voluntary, and compensate ERG leaders or internal experts for their time.

6. Engage Employees Through Culture and the Arts

Art, literature, music, and storytelling by Black artists represent both historical and contemporary cultural expression.

Celebrate the centennial through:

• Film screenings or book club discussions tied to the 100-year theme

• Gallery-style displays highlighting Black artists’ work

• Music and cultural showcases representing different eras from 1926 to 2026

Culture connects people and supports deeper understanding and appreciation.

7. Commit to Year-Round Action Beyond the Anniversary

While the centennial is a historic milestone, the work cannot end in February.

Use this year as a catalyst for sustained commitments, such as:

• Ongoing DEI training programs

• Leadership development pathways for Black employees

• Regular audits of pay equity, promotion rates, and hiring practices

• Continued community partnerships and volunteerism

The best way to honor a century of Black history is to continue building more equitable workplaces for the next century.

Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Present, and Building the Future

The 100th anniversary of formally celebrating Black history is more than a milestone; it’s a reminder of the power of education, the importance of representation, and the shared responsibility we all hold in shaping inclusive workplaces.

By embracing the 2026 theme, “A Century of Black History Commemoration,” your organization has a meaningful opportunity.

As a team, you can:

• Reflect on the lessons of the past

• Celebrate the contributions of Black employees and communities

• Commit to practices that promote equity, belonging, and respect

Black History Month has always been a call to remember, but this year, it’s also a call to envision. A century from now, what will your workplace be remembered for?