Honoring the past, engaging the present, and inspiring the future
Every February, Black History Month invites communities across the United States to honor the achievements, resilience, culture, and legacy of Black Americans. What began nearly a century ago as Negro History Week has grown into a powerful month-long observance filled with celebration, education, and community engagement.
What Black History Month Means
Black History Month traces its roots back to 1926, when historian Carter G. Woodson — now often called the “Father of Black History” — launched Negro History Week to spotlight the accomplishments and influence of Black Americans at a time when those stories were largely overlooked in schools and public life.
Woodson chose February because it encompassed the birthdays of two towering figures in Black history — Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass — already celebrated by Black communities, and he believed education about Black history was vital to understanding American history as a whole.
By the 1970s, Negro History Week evolved into Black History Month, officially recognized in 1976. Since then, every February has provided an opportunity to reflect on both historical figures and present-day leaders who continue shaping our world — in culture, arts, science, justice, community building, and beyond.
Black History Month Events in San Joaquin County (February 2026)
San Joaquin County offers several meaningful ways to engage, learn, and celebrate Black History Month this year. Here are key local events you won’t want to miss:
🎉 Black History Month Kickoff Celebration — Stockton
📍 Duc Ballroom, 901 President Dr, Stockton, CA
📅 Friday, February 6 | 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Hosted by the University of the Pacific Center for Identity & Inclusion-Black Student Services, this official kickoff event brings the community together to celebrate heritage, culture, and achievements.
🌟 Black Brilliance: Illuminating the Path Forward — Tracy
📍 Grand Theatre Center for the Arts, Tracy
📅 Friday, February 6 (Evening)
Celebrate through performances, music, dance, spoken word, and youth voices. This showcase highlights local talent and honors the enduring legacy of Black excellence in our region.
📚 Black History Month Scavenger Hunt — Mountain House (Library Event)
📍 Stockton-San Joaquin County Public Library, Mountain House Branch
📅 Wednesday, February 5
Fun for all ages! Search for books, movies, audiobooks, and more that highlight Black authors and history. A great way to learn while exploring your local library.
Delta College Black History Month Series — Stockton
Delta College is hosting a multi-day celebration with cultural exhibits, music, spoken word, workshops, and more — including a Unity March, African Dance Workshop, Black business showcase, and special performances highlighting African and African American culture. Events run throughout February.
More Ways to Honor Black History Month
Even outside formal events, Black History Month is a chance to:
- Support Black-owned businesses and creators
- Read and share books by Black authors
- Attend lectures, exhibits, and local discussions
- Learn about lesser-known figures and contributions in history
Learning and celebration don’t stop at events — they live on in the stories we share and the conversations we have all year long.
A Month of Reflection and Action
Black History Month is more than a reflection on the past — it’s an active celebration of progress and an invitation to deepen understanding. From community gatherings in San Joaquin County to educational moments with family, school, or friends, this February offers opportunities to honor voices that have shaped history and continue to shape our communities.
Let this month be a time of connection, education, and appreciation — here and everywhere. 💛
