Celebrations for Black History Month and African Heritage Month are officially underway across the global African diaspora, with institutions in North America launching programs that highlight Black history, cultural contributions, and contemporary social impact.

This year’s commemorations reflect a growing emphasis on education, historical preservation, and cross-generational dialogue, as communities gather to honour African and diasporic legacies.

Historic Commemoration in South Carolina

In the United States, the Avery Research Center in South Carolina has marked its 160th anniversary as part of Black History Month programming. The centre, known for preserving African American history and archival collections, hosted events spotlighting civil rights history, cultural resilience, and community scholarship.

Organisers described the anniversary as a moment to reflect on the enduring importance of historical memory and Black archival institutions in shaping national narratives.

University-Led Celebrations in Canada

In Canada, Brock University has launched university-wide activities to mark African Heritage Month, including lectures, cultural performances, and student-led discussions. The programming focuses on Black excellence, academic contributions, and the evolving role of African-descended communities in Canadian society.

University officials said the celebrations aim to foster inclusive dialogue while reinforcing the importance of Black history education within academic spaces.

Diaspora-Wide Cultural Significance

Across the diaspora, Black History Month continues to serve as a platform for storytelling, policy reflection, and cultural affirmation. Observers note that recent years have seen expanded participation beyond traditional commemorations, with increased involvement from universities, museums, and civic organisations.

The 2026 observances underscore the ongoing relevance of African heritage, both as a historical foundation and as a living, evolving global identity.