Black History Month

Since its beginnings in 1926, Black History Month has been celebrated through the lens of a central theme each year, chosen by the ASALH. The theme allows educators and celebrants to focus in on certain aspects of Black History as well as the current Black experience in the United States. This year's theme, "African Americans and Labor," highlights the way in which work and labor -- of all varieties -- intersects and informs the Black American experience throughout history.

The ASALH introduces the theme succinctly, stating:

"Indeed, work is at the very center of much of Black history and culture. Be it the traditional agricultural labor of enslaved Africans that fed Low Country colonies, debates among Black educators on the importance of vocational training, self-help strategies and entrepreneurship in Black communities, or organized labor’s role in fighting both economic and social injustice, Black people’s work has been transformational throughout the U.S., Africa, and the Diaspora. The 2025 Black History Month theme, “African Americans and Labor,” sets out to highlight and celebrate the potent impact of this work. Considering Black people’s work through the widest perspectives provides versatile and insightful platforms for examining Black life and culture through time and space."

Organizations