Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus leaders recognize centennial Black History Month
Rep. Darisha Parker January 30, 2026 | 4:18 PM
HARRISBURG, Jan. 30 – The executive team of the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus have issued the following statement recognizing February 2026 as the 100th annual Black History Month.
Black History Month was created in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson in his work founding the group now known as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History. The celebration, formerly known as Negro History Week, expanded into Black History Month in 1970, with the first federal recognition coming from President Gerald Ford in 1976.
“This year marks not only the 100th anniversary of Black History Month, but also the 250th anniversary of our nation,” said Rep. Napoleon Nelson, chair of the PLBC. “Black history is American history, and it has made our nation what it is today. Especially now, it is important that we reflect on our history and use it to shape a more just future for people of color across Pennsylvania and our nation.”
“Considering no one can erase what we have built, we cannot let one person’s actions define our present, erase our past and preserve our future. We will do that,” said Rep. Darisha Parker, vice chair of the PLBC. “And we will continue to do so by strategically supporting, uplifting and empowering Black communities. No weapon formed against us shall prosper.”
“In this perilous time, it has never been more clear that preserving and celebrating Black history is essential to our fight to save our republic,” said Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El, secretary of the PLBC. “The forces that are trying to erase the historical memory of Black peoples’ foundational contributions to American history and culture are also trying to destroy the constitutional foundations on which our republic stands. We will not forget how we have made America great and we will keep working to keep our republic alive.”
"This Black History Month, we're not just looking back, we're marching forward," said Rep. Justin Fleming, treasurer of the PLBC. "The resilience that Black communities have shown in the face of injustice are the same forces that will strengthen our democracy today. As we honor that legacy, we strengthen our shared commitment to a more just future for all Pennsylvanians."
To mark the 100th anniversary of Black History Month and the outstanding work of communities of color in Pennsylvania, Nelson has introduced legislation to recognize February 2026 as the 100th anniversary of Black History Month.